In a heartbreaking incident that unfolded within the walls of a Brooklyn apartment, a young life was tragically cut short. Fourteen-year-old Jasai Guy, a male resident of the borough, died on June 2, 2024, from a gunshot wound to his chest. The fatal event occurred in his family's home at the Howard Houses complex in the Brownsville neighborhood.
On that Sunday morning, while his grandfather was asleep in an adjacent room after taking sleeping medication, Jasai and his 12-year-old cousin
discovered a sawed-off shotgun. In what has been described as a tragic accident, the younger cousin was handling the firearm when it discharged, striking Jasai. The weapon reportedly belonged to Jasai's father, an FDNY firefighter who was out of state on vacation at the time.
Responding to the scene, law enforcement found a grief-stricken scene. The 12-year-old cousin was reportedly heard expressing his regret and shock, telling police, 'I shot my cousin by accident, I don't want him to die.' Jasai was rushed to Brookdale University Hospital, but his injuries proved to be fatal, and he was pronounced dead.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the 12-year-old cousin, whose name has not been released due to his age, was taken into custody. He has since been charged with manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and criminal possession of a weapon. The community and friends remembered Jasai as a well-mannered boy who enjoyed playing basketball and was a good student.
