In Olivette, Missouri, ex-college football player Jaylen Johnson accidentally killed his mother, thinking she was an intruder.
The tragedy unfolded early Thursday morning when Monica McNichols-Johnson, 56, attempted to enter their home through the back door. Jaylen, 25, who had kept a gun for protection after a previous robbery, fired the fatal shot around 7:30 a.m.
Despite Jaylen’s girlfriend and later paramedics immediately attempting to save her life, they pronounced Monica dead at the scene.
Jaylen, devastated by the accident, called 911 and has been in a state of distress since the incident. His attorney, William Goldstein, conveyed to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that Jaylen “hasn’t stopped crying.”
Prosecutors have charged Jaylen with manslaughter and armed criminal action, setting his bail at $100,000.
Jaylen’s lawyer calls him a “sweetheart” with a “bright future,” employed without a criminal record.
This tragedy might spark debates on Missouri’s “stand your ground” gun law, allowing deadly force against perceived attacks.
The incident remains under investigation, highlighting the profound consequences of gun ownership and the importance of gun safety measures.