A 13-year-old Miami Gardens boy's life was tragically cut short in a weekend shooting that took place while he was playing video games with other children. Identified by family members as George Harris Jr., the young teen was accidentally shot in the back of the head, authorities reported. Police believe the children somehow got a hold of a gun which then discharged, resulting in Harris Jr.'s death. The incident happened around 7:40 p.m. Saturday inside a home on Northwest 207th Street and 38th Avenue, according to NBC Miami.
The Miami Gardens Police, who continue to actively investigate the shooting, found a firearm in the house by executing a search warrant on Monday. They reported that there was an adult present at the time of the incident, yet it remains unclear whether any charges are to be swiftly filed. Until now, nobody has been arrested in connection with the shooting.
"It is very difficult to find words that can adequately express our thoughts at this time," said the family in a statement obtained by NBC Miami. George Harris Jr. was remembered by his family as an active member of the community, playing for the Liberty City Warriors football team, which has since canceled practice on Tuesday. The team is also planning to honor Harris Jr. with a balloon release scheduled for Wednesday.
As the community grieves, the depth of the tragedy is being increasingly felt. The accidental death of Harris Jr. has raised further questions about gun safety and children's access to firearms in the home. The tight-knit Miami Gardens community and Liberty City Warriors are left to reckon with the disturbing reality that a young life can be taken so abruptly by a firearm left within reach. Details on the investigation are still forthcoming, as reported by Local 10.
