In the early morning hours of August 20, 2024, the life of 17-year-old Deontae Montrell Boehrns, a Black / African American male, was tragically cut short in a Sioux Falls, South Dakota home. Deontae, along with other minors, was at the residence of a 13-year-old boy, where they were spending time playing video games. The night took a fatal turn when a 9mm handgun, which had been reported stolen from an unlocked vehicle, was introduced and handled by the 13-year-old.
What was initially
reported as an accidental shooting was later classified as a homicide by authorities. According to accounts from witnesses, including Deontae's best friend who was present, the 13-year-old was reportedly pointing the firearm at Deontae in a playful manner when the gun discharged, inflicting a fatal gunshot wound to his face. The initial narrative that Deontae had shot himself was contradicted by his friend's testimony to detectives. Emergency services were called, and Deontae was rushed to a hospital, but his injuries were too severe, and he was later taken off life support.
The investigation into Deontae's death led to the arrest of two individuals. The 13-year-old who was handling the firearm at the time of the incident was taken into custody. Additionally, his 33-year-old mother, Savannah Randle, was arrested and faced multiple charges, including accessory to manslaughter, false reporting, and nine counts of child abuse. The charge of false reporting stemmed from the initial misinformation provided to law enforcement about the circumstances of the shooting.
Those who knew Deontae described him as a vibrant and determined young man with a kind heart. He had recently started a new job at a local restaurant and was looking forward to his senior year of high school. His untimely death has left his family and friends devastated and has highlighted the issue of gun violence and the importance of secure firearm storage within the Sioux Falls community.
