A Mandeville woman has been charged in connection with the tragic death of her four-year-old daughter, Gia Griniell. The little girl was fatally shot at their home last week, stunning the nation. The 38-year-old mother faces charges of child negligence and failure to properly store a firearm and ammunition.
Police reports state that on the night of the incident, the mother had placed her two children, Gia and her 12-year-old sibling, to bed before stepping away to use the restroom. Moments later, she said she heard a loud explosion. It was later revealed that her licensed firearm had been left unsecured in her handbag.
The devastating event took place at the family’s Ingleside Boulevard home around 10:00 p.m. last Tuesday. Gia suffered a gunshot wound to the back of her head and was pronounced dead at the scene. The mother, whose identity has not been disclosed, was formally questioned by investigators, and after several days of investigation, she was charged on Monday night.
She has been granted station bail, allowing her to remain at home until her first court appearance, which is currently being scheduled.
The incident has attracted a mix of angry and sorrowful responses from the public. Some have expressed deep sympathy for the family and urged others not to be quick to cast judgment. On the other hand, others have called for accountability while highlighting the importance of responsible firearm storage in homes with children.
The public, both concerned and enraged, emphasised that children should not have access to firearms. Additionally, questions remain about how the shooting unfolded, as there is limited information available.
Since the incident, there has been a call for greater awareness of the risks posed by unsecured firearms in homes. Parents and licensed firearm holders have been urged to take extra precautions with their weapons.