In a tragic incident in Indianapolis, Indiana, a young life was cut devastatingly short. Two-year-old Kiyan Shelton, a Black male, died on April 20, 2016, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The curious toddler had been in his home on the northwest side of the city when the tragedy unfolded.
According to reports, Kiyan's mother, Kanisha Shelton, had briefly stepped away to care for her younger 9-month-old daughter.
In that short time, Kiyan managed to climb onto a kitchen counter where his mother's purse had been left. Inside the purse was a loaded. 380 Bersa semi-automatic pistol. The young boy retrieved the firearm and accidentally discharged it, sustaining a fatal wound to his chest.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the death, and while the shooting was deemed a tragic accident, the circumstances led to legal consequences for his mother. Homicide detectives presented their findings to the Marion County prosecutor's office, which resulted in charges being filed against Kanisha Shelton. She was charged with a felony count of neglect of a dependent resulting in death, based on the fact that the loaded handgun was left within her son's reach.
Ultimately, Kanisha Shelton, who did possess a valid gun permit, accepted a plea deal. For her role in the accidental shooting death of her son, she was sentenced to one year in prison. The heartbreaking case prompted discussions within the community about the critical importance of responsible gun ownership and safe firearm storage, particularly in homes with young children.
