BLACK JACK, Mo. — A tragic night in north St. Louis County marked a sobering reminder of the persistent issues surrounding gun safety and violence. Two separate incidents late Friday resulted in the death of a young boy and left two women hospitalized, raising alarm among residents about the safety of firearms in their community.
Shortly before 10 p.m., police arrived at a residence on Jerries Lane where they found a 5-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound. Authorities reported the shooting was accidental. Despite immediate medical attention, the child was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the hospital.
Local resident Tabitha Bridges expressed her dismay, suggesting that gun owners need to reconsider how they secure their firearms. “We need to rethink how we store or carry our guns to prevent tragedies like this,” she emphasized, reflecting a growing frustration among residents about firearm safety.
As investigations continue, no charges have yet been announced in connection with the boy’s death. However, there have been instances in the past where adults have faced legal repercussions for not properly securing firearms in households where children were harmed. For example, in May 2022, Marshaun Futrell Sr. was charged with child endangerment following the accidental shooting death of his 11-year-old son, who found an unsecured gun. In another case, Kalvin Fayne was charged in October after a 3-year-old child accidentally shot himself with a similarly unsecured firearm in his home.
In another part of the county, a double shooting unfolded late Friday in Dellwood on Olney Drive, injuring two women. A 61-year-old resident and her 37-year-old daughter, who is pregnant and also lived at the home with her children, were both taken to the hospital. The younger woman remains in critical condition.
Authorities allege that the shooter, 67-year-old Leonard Davies, who is the brother of the older victim and uncle to the younger, was involved in the attack. He has been charged with several serious offenses, including first-degree assault and armed criminal action, as well as possessing a firearm as a felon.
Neighbors described Davies as a kind and helpful individual, expressing disbelief that he could be involved in such violent behavior. Marlon Lawson, a local resident, shared his shock: “It’s really unbelievable. We have such a quiet, nice neighborhood here.”
As the community grapples with these incidents, conversations about gun safety and measures to prevent further tragedies have taken center stage. The events of Friday night have ignited a renewed urgency among residents to advocate for change and ensure safer environments for families and children.