10-year-old Girl Killed by Gun Modified for Rapid Fire

In a house in Mishawaka, Indiana, 10-year-old Sophia Burks was killed in an accidental shooting that involved a gun “modified for rapid fire.” She was pronounced dead at the scene. The gun used belonged to the boyfriend of Sophia’s older sister, 17-year-old Jacob Olvera. The shooting is under investigation, but Olvera was arrested under preliminary charges of possession of a machine gun, dangerous possession of a firearm, and criminal recklessness.

From a GoFundMe page, Sophia “…was a bright light who loved dancing, her favorite stuffed animal, and playing outside. She had a smile that could light up any room and a spirit that will never be forgotten.”

Source:

Jeff Parrott, “Police Say Sister’s Boyfriend’s Modified Gun Involved in Death of 10-year-old Girl in Mishawaka,”wvpe.org (February 9, 2026).