In North Hollywood, California, Valentina Orellana-Peralta, a 14-year old girl who was shopping for a quinceañera dress, was accidentally shot and killed in a department store dressing room when a bullet passed through a wall during a police action at the store. She died at the scene.

Los Angeles police were shooting at an assault suspect at the time of the incident.  The suspect also died. “I am profoundly sorry for the loss of this young girl’s life and I know there are no words that can relieve the unimaginable pain for the family,” the Los Angeles Police Chief said in a written statement.

Also today, Quenten Liford of Burkburnett, Texas was shot and killed by another man, Mathew Tenney, who was examining a new gun. Tenney reportedly told a detective that he was looking at a new firearm that a third man had purchased. He said he thought that the gun was unloaded, and he pretended that he drew it from a holster, pulled the trigger, and the weapon discharged, striking Liford in the chest. Tenney has been charged with manslaughter.

And an Atlanta, Georgia five-year old shot himself in the foot after finding a gun in his home.  He is expected to survive.

“This incident did not have to occur,” Atlanta police officials said on social media. “We do not understand the rationale behind leaving unsecured loaded guns in the home when children are around. It will never make sense to us. This child could have died. We are all grateful that this little boy will be around to open presents on Christmas day, but we are saddened that we must do yet another post asking people to be responsible, smart, and mindful when dealing with firearms and children.”

Sources:

Alicia Victoria Lozano, “14-year-old Victim Identified After Fatal Shooting by Los Angeles Police,” NBC News (December 24, 2021).

Olivia Taggart, “Burkburnett Man Charged with Manslaughter After Alleged Accidental Shooting,”  Texoma’s Homepage (December 24, 2021).

Caroline Silva, “5-year-old Injured in Accidental Shooting at NE Atlanta Apartments,” The Atlanta Journal Constitution (December 23, 2021).