12-year-old is Accidentally Shot and Killed During Birthday Celebration

In St. Paul, Minnesota, 12-year-old Markee Jones was accidentally shot and killed by his older brother during what would have been a celebratory birthday weekend for their cousin. Fourteen children were gathered in their grandmother’s house and were planning to go go-karting.

According to the family, someone unknown brought an unsecured gun into the house without their knowledge; two of the boys started playing with it and the gun went off striking Markee. Police arrested Markee’s 14-year-old brother on suspicion of manslaughter and have not released any details about what led up to the shooting as they interview witnesses.

Markee’s family described him as a “sweet boy.” “He loved to be outside, loved to play. He was adventurous,” said his uncle. “He was growing and becoming a young man.”

His cousins say their grandmother’s house is a safe haven. “It’s gonna really hurt just not seeing him at my grandmother’s house anymore,” said his cousin. “Just playing with him, just seeing him, it’s gonna really hurt.”

Sources:

Richard Reeve, Emily Baude, “‘This Should’ve Never Happened’: St. Paul Family Calls for Answers after Accidental Shooting of 12-year-old Boy,” kstp.com (August 6, 2023).

Kirsten Mitchell, “Family Demands Accountability after Accidental St. Paul Shooting Leaves 12-year-old Dead, Brother Arrested,” cbsnews.com (August 6, 2023).