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California Mother Fatally Shot by Her Toddler

Published 1 months ago on Dec 12, 2024

California Mother Fatally Shot by Her Toddler After Child Finds Unsecured Gun in Bedroom.

A devastating tragedy unfolded in northeast Fresno, California, when 22-year-old Jessinya Mina was accidentally shot and killed by her two-year-old son after the toddler discovered a loaded and unsecured handgun in their home.

The incident occurred late Friday afternoon at the Butterfly Grove apartment complex. Mina was reportedly lying in bed when the child, who had found the 9mm firearm in the couple's bedroom, unintentionally discharged the weapon.

Immediate Response and Investigation

Police arrived at the scene just before 5:30 PM to find Mina with a single gunshot wound to her upper body. She was initially being transported to the hospital by her boyfriend, Andrew Sanchez, and their roommates when first responders intervened. Mina was rushed to Community Regional Medical Center but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.

Fresno Police Lieutenant Paul Cervantes detailed the tragic sequence of events during a press conference, emphasizing the rarity of such incidents.

"It’s difficult to grasp that a two-and-a-half-year-old child could muster the strength to handle and fire a weapon," Lt. Cervantes said. "The firearm was stored in a location accessible to the toddler, and the child managed to manipulate the trigger, fatally striking Mina."

The firearm, located at the scene, has been seized as evidence. Authorities are working to trace its origin, as it did not match any registered owner in their system, raising questions about whether it was legally owned or stolen.

Negligence and Legal Ramifications

Andrew Sanchez, Mina's 18-year-old boyfriend, has been taken into custody. He faces charges of negligent storage of a firearm and felony child endangerment. Although he has since posted bail, his actions are under scrutiny as prosecutors weigh additional charges.

Legal analyst Tony Capozzi weighed in on the case, suggesting that felony charges are likely. "If convicted, Sanchez could face two to six years in state prison," Capozzi told ABC30. "Prosecutors will need to carefully examine evidence, including gunshot residue and storage conditions, to ensure a thorough investigation."

Family’s Grief and Plea for Accountability

Mina’s sister, Jessica Rodriguez, expressed profound grief and frustration over her sister’s preventable death.

"This tragedy could have been avoided if my sister’s wishes were respected," Rodriguez said. "She never wanted a gun in her home. Now, because of Andrew’s carelessness and neglect, my sister is gone forever."

Mina was a devoted mother to two children, including her eight-month-old daughter, and had plans to return to cosmetology school. Her sister described her as "a beautiful, loving, and selfless person who touched the lives of everyone she met."

The family has started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for Mina's two young children, who are now in the care of their grandparents.

Gun Safety and Prevention

The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership and storage. Fresno police reiterated the necessity of securing firearms, especially in homes with children.

"When you don’t have a lock, a loaded gun can be fired at any time," said Officer Luke Tran. Fresno Police Department offers free gun locks to the community to prevent such tragedies.

Lt. Cervantes added, "Tragedies like this ripple through families and communities, leaving lasting scars. This heartbreaking event underscores the need for better awareness and action on firearm safety."

Outpouring of Support and Advocacy

As the community mourns Mina’s loss, advocates are calling for stricter gun safety measures to prevent future accidents. The incident highlights a growing concern about unsecured firearms in homes and their catastrophic consequences.

The Butterfly Grove community, still reeling from the tragedy, has come together to support Mina’s family, while Mina’s sister uses the platform of grief to raise awareness about gun safety.

"Her children will grow up with only memories and stories of their mother," Rodriguez shared in a heartfelt statement. "We will never see her achieve her dreams because of this negligence. This should never happen to another family."

The Fresno Police Department continues its investigation as they work to determine whether additional charges will be filed against Sanchez. Meanwhile, Mina’s death serves as a somber reminder of the life-altering consequences of firearm negligence.

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