LAFAYETTE, La. — A Lafayette teenager has been arrested following a tragic shooting that left a 4-year-old child dead after a toddler accessed a loaded handgun inside a home, according to police.
The incident happened Saturday evening in the 100 block of Lena Street. Officers with the Lafayette Police Department responded to a call around 6 p.m. reporting a child had been shot.
What Police Say Happened
Investigators said a 2-year-old child found a loaded firearm inside the residence and accidentally discharged it. The bullet struck 4-year-old Blaze Rubin, who was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries.
Police have not released details on how the firearm was stored or how the toddler gained access to it.
Teen Taken Into Custody
Authorities arrested 17-year-old Jenarius Johnson in connection with the shooting. Johnson is facing charges of negligent homicide and illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile.
Police did not clarify Johnson’s relationship to either child or confirm whether he lived at the residence where the shooting occurred.
Ongoing Investigation
The Lafayette Police Department said the investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting, including how long the firearm had been in the home and who was responsible for securing it.
No additional arrests have been announced at this time.
Call for Information
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Lafayette Police Department or Lafayette Crime Stoppers at (337) 232-TIPS (8477). Police say tips can be submitted anonymously.
Community Impact
The death of a young child has shaken the Lena Street neighborhood, with police emphasizing the dangers of unsecured firearms, especially in homes with children. Authorities have not announced whether additional charges could be filed as the case moves forward.
More details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.
