Two Teens “Play Fighting” with a Gun, One is Killed

In Clearwater, Florida, Jacques Ford, 16, was killed by another 16-year-old who picked up a gun while they were “play fighting” and unintentionally shot him. The incident occurred in an apartment where the suspect lived, and witnesses told police that “the weapon went off during the physical exchange.” The teen has been charged with manslaughter and violation of probation in this ongoing investigation. Police say there may be additional charges filed.

In a GoFundMe post, Jacques’s father said, “[h]is infectious smile and caring nature touched the lives of so many, and his sudden departure has left a void that can never be filled.”

Sources:

Jack Prator, “Clearwater Police Arrest Teen in Fatal Shooting of Boy, 16,” tampabay.com (February 1, 2024).

Kinsey Crowley, “‘Compassionate Soul’: 16-year-old Fatally Shot While ‘Play Fighting’ with Other Teen, Police Say,” usatoday.com (February 2, 2024).