On November 14, 2023, a tragic incident occurred in Lauderhill, Florida, resulting in the death of 10-year-old Mike Brenly Saint Jean. Mike was sitting in his living room, having just finished his homework and waiting for his brother to check it, when a stray bullet penetrated the wall of their apartment and struck him in the neck. The bullet, which entered and exited his neck, left Mike in a critical condition.
Immediately after the incident, Mike's family called 911, and emergency responders from Lauderhill arrived shortly after 9 p.m. to find Mike unresponsive and injured. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Despite medical efforts, Mike did not survive and passed away a few days later.
The investigation revealed that the gunshot originated from an adjacent apartment unit on Northwest 19th Street near 54th Avenue. According to the Broward State Attorney's Office, a woman in the neighboring apartment had mistakenly picked up her boyfriend's gun with her finger inside the trigger guard, causing the accidental firing of the gun.
The Broward State Attorney's Office conducted a thorough review of the investigation and concluded that Mike's death was accidental in nature. The close-out memo stated that there was no intentional or criminal act involved, and therefore, no charges would be filed. The man who left the gun in the home was charged for possessing it, but it was determined that leaving the gun secure in a bag did not constitute culpable negligence.
Mike's family expressed deep disappointment with the decision not to prosecute anyone for his death. Through their attorney, they stated that while the decision would not alleviate their pain, they would continue to seek justice and ensure those responsible were held accountable.
Mike was remembered as a vibrant and healthy 10-year-old who enjoyed playing games, loved football, and was an altar boy at a local church. He was well-loved in school and known for his infectious laughter and warm hugs, earning him the nickname "the hugger" among family and friends. A GoFundMe account was set up to help the family cope with the unexpected expenses resulting from the tragedy.
