A heartbreaking incident in Washington, D.C. has left a community in mourning after a 14-year-old girl fatally shot herself while filming a video for social media, according to local authorities.
The tragedy unfolded around 5 p.m. Wednesday inside a Northeast D.C. apartment. Police say the teen was reportedly holding a gun and recording a video when the firearm unintentionally discharged, striking her in the upper body.
“The preliminary findings suggest the young girl was handling a firearm while creating a social media post when it accidentally went off,” said D.C. police in an official statement.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and attempted life-saving efforts, but the teen sadly succumbed to her injuries. Officials have not released her identity due to her age.
At the time of the shooting, several individuals… including at least one adult—were inside the residence, police confirmed. The weapon involved was recovered at the scene.
Neighbors expressed their sorrow over the devastating news.
“My heart goes out to her parents. May God give them strength during this unimaginable time,” said neighbor Wokie Jones. “We’ve seen too many young lives lost to gun violence.”
D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith called the incident a chilling reminder of the dangers associated with unsecured firearms. “This tragedy underscores why it’s critical that guns are kept out of reach of children and teens,” she said. “Firearms are not toys, and they should never be accessible to anyone who is not a responsible, lawful gun owner.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, which is currently being treated as an accidental shooting.
