The Incident
On Monday, May 22nd, 2017, a 14-year-old girl from Georgia accidentally shot her 15-year-old cousin in the head while they were playing with a handgun on Facebook Live.
The two girls were reportedly handling the gun and showing it off to their viewers when the girl accidentally pulled the trigger, shooting her cousin in the head.
The Aftermath
Immediately after the shooting, the girl can be heard on the video screaming and crying for help as her cousin lay motionless on the ground. The video cuts off as the girl's mother enters the room and calls 911.
The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she underwent surgery to remove the bullet from her brain. She was listed in critical condition and remained in a medically-induced coma for several weeks.
The Charges
The girl who pulled the trigger was arrested and charged with reckless conduct and involuntary manslaughter. She was later released on bail and placed on house arrest.
Her family maintains that the shooting was a tragic accident and that the girl did not intend to harm her cousin.
The Fallout
The incident sparked a nationwide conversation about gun safety and the dangers of social media, particularly live streaming platforms like Facebook Live and Periscope.
Many people criticized Facebook for allowing the video to remain on their platform for several hours before it was taken down, arguing that the company should have done more to prevent the spread of graphic content.
The Lessons Learned
The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of gun safety and responsible behavior on social media. It also highlights the need for better regulation and oversight of live streaming platforms to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
As for the victim, she has since recovered from her injuries and is reportedly doing well. However, the emotional scars from the incident will likely stay with her and her family for years to come.
The Impact
The incident has had a profound impact on the families of both girls and on the wider community. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of guns and the importance of responsible behavior on social media.
It also highlights the need for better education and awareness around gun safety, particularly among young people who may not fully understand the dangers of handling firearms.
The Conclusion
The shooting shook the internet and sparked a nationwide conversation about gun safety and social media. While the incident was tragic, it serves as an important reminder of the need for responsible behavior both online and offline.
