In the small city of Earle, Arkansas, a young life was tragically cut short on a winter day. Sixteen-year-old Kevin Branch, a male student at Earle High School, died on January 30, 2017. The events of that day point to a heartbreaking accident rather than a malicious act.
Reports from the Crittenden County Sheriff's Office indicated that the teenager accidentally shot himself.
It is believed that Branch was attempting to place a handgun into the waistband of his pants when the firearm discharged. The single gunshot wound proved to be fatal.
The investigation into his death concluded that it was an unfortunate accident. As a result, there were no arrests made in connection with the incident, and no suspects were sought. The community was left to mourn the sudden and unexpected loss of a young man who was described as a solid and real individual who inspired many people at such a young age.
