Jersey City Boy, 14, To Be Charged With Manslaughter In Fatal Shooting Of Half Brother
JERSEY CITY, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- A 14-year-old Jersey City boy will be charged with aggravated manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of his 12-year-old half brother two weeks ago, Hudson County Prosecutor Edward DeFazio said.
Police believe the older boy was playing with the gun when he accidentally shot his brother, Hassan George, in the chest with a gun belonging to his mother Sarrah Green-Sims, who is a corrections officer.
The body was then dragged outside, where it was found by a neighbor. DeFazio said the teen showed a "reckless disregard" for human life and should have known better.
"The allegations are that the 14-year-old found the gun, took the gun, loaded the pistol and then pointed it in the direction of the victim and the gun discharged," he said.
DeFazio said the teen sought out his mother's service weapon, which the prosecutor said was properly stored separate from the ammunition.
DeFazio said authorities don't believe the teen intended to kill the boy. Family members say they believe the boys were playing around.
Green-Sims' attorney, who does not represent her son, said his client has "cooperated fully with this investigation" and "trusts that our system of criminal justice operate to exonerate her young son of all charges."
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