Tragedy in Georgia: 5-Year-Old Boy Fatally Shot After Twin Sibling Finds Unsecured Gun in Mother’s Purse

DeKalb County, Georgia — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded at The Village at Wesley Chapel apartments this week when a 5-year-old boy was shot and killed after his twin sibling accidentally discharged a loaded handgun found in their mother’s purse. The child died at the scene, and now the children’s mother faces serious criminal charges.

The incident occurred on July 22, sending shockwaves through the local community and igniting calls for greater awareness and responsibility around gun storage in homes with children.

A Preventable Tragedy

According to DeKalb County police, the twins had been left unsupervised inside a bedroom when one of them discovered a loaded firearm in their mother’s purse. Investigators say the gun had been left unsecured, and tragically, one twin discharged the weapon, fatally striking the other.

“This was a completely preventable loss of life,” said a spokesperson for the DeKalb County Police Department. “It’s a devastating reminder of why safe firearm storage is not optional — it’s essential.”

Mother Faces Criminal Charges

The mother, 25-year-old Lanecia Bennett, has been charged with second-degree murder and cruelty to children. Although she did not pull the trigger, police assert she is criminally responsible for negligently allowing access to a deadly weapon.

Bennett appeared in court this week, where she was denied bond and ordered to remain in custody pending further hearings.

“As heartbreaking as this is, the law is clear — adults must secure their firearms when children are present,” said DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston. “When that responsibility is ignored, the consequences can be fatal.”

The Surviving Twin and Ongoing Investigation

The surviving twin is now under the care of family members, with oversight from child protective services. Authorities say the investigation remains active, and additional charges could be filed depending on the findings.

The names of the children have not been released to protect the privacy of the surviving sibling.

Grieving Community in Shock

Neighbors and local community members expressed deep sorrow and disbelief at the tragic incident.

“It’s every parent’s nightmare,” said Crystal Jackson, a nearby resident. “My heart breaks for that little boy. This should never have happened.”

A small memorial with candles, teddy bears, and handwritten notes has formed outside the apartment building where the shooting occurred.

Gun Safety Urged After the Incident

Child safety advocates and gun reform groups are once again calling for stronger awareness around responsible firearm storage.

According to Everytown for Gun Safety, nearly 350 children under age 18 unintentionally shoot themselves or others each year in the U.S., often due to unsecured firearms in the home.

“Safe storage saves lives,” said Jasmine Ford, Georgia chapter lead for Moms Demand Action. “This child’s death is a tragedy — not just for this family, but for every community that fails to act.”

What Happens Next

Lanecia Bennett is expected to return to court in the coming weeks. Prosecutors have not announced whether they will pursue additional charges. In the meantime, grief counselors have been made available to families in the apartment complex.

As Georgia continues to grapple with rising incidents of gun-related injuries among minors, advocates stress that the key to prevention lies not in blame, but in education, secure storage, and community accountability.

In Memory

The 5-year-old boy, remembered by neighbors as cheerful and full of energy, was known for his love of cartoons and his inseparable bond with his twin.

“They were always together,” one resident said tearfully. “This will haunt our building for a long time.”

This is a developing story. More details will be shared as they become available.