JERSEY CITY – A 14-year-old boy was charged last week with manslaughter for the accidental shooting death of his 12-year-old half brother.
The weapon allegedly used in the shooting was the service revolver issued to a Hudson County Corrections Officer.
According to published reports, the children were left alone on Feb. 24 at a home on Randolph Avenue when the 14-year old allegedly found and loaded his mother’s service weapon. He then allegedly pointed the loaded weapon at his half brother before the gun was fired.
NJ.com quoted Prosecutor Ed DeFazio as saying, “We are not in any way alleging this was a premeditated or purposeful act, however we are alleging the act manifested extreme indifference to the value of human life.”
The boy, who is being charged as a juvenile for aggravated manslaughter, will be tried before a family court judge. According to published reports, if found guilty the boy could face up to four years behind bars. He is currently being held while awaiting prosecution before a Family Court judge.
No criminal charges have been filed against his mother, although published reports have stated that she could face administrative charges if it is discovered that her service weapon was not properly stored.