Florissant, Missouri — Prosecutors filed charges after a child accessed an unsecured gun and died Saturday, prompting a criminal investigation.
According to the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Raymone McPherson, 29, of the 12400 block of Jerries Lane in Florissant, was charged with first-degree endangering the welfare of a child — no sexual contact. McPherson is being held on a $250,000 cash-only bond with no 10% option.
Court documents allege that on or about Saturday, Feb. 7, McPherson placed a loaded firearm within reach of a minor child inside the residence, then left the child unattended. Investigators say the child, later identified as Jaylon Young, 5, was able to use the firearm and fatally shoot himself.
Police stated that McPherson contacted 911 after the shooting and allegedly acknowledged that the child had accessed his gun. Authorities said McPherson admitted he was at fault in allowing the firearm to be accessible.
Emergency responders pronounced the child deceased at the scene. The incident occurred in the 12400 block of Jerries Lane, a residential area in north St. Louis County.
St. Louis County Police Department Crimes Against Persons detectives are handling the investigation. Officials emphasized that the charge is an allegation, and McPherson is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about firearm storage and child safety, particularly in homes with young children. Law enforcement officials continue to urge gun owners to secure firearms with locks or safes and store ammunition separately.
No additional charges have been announced as of Monday, and investigators said the case remains active.
This incident may be of particular concern to parents, caregivers, and young families across the region, especially those living in multi-child households.
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