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Loaded Gun Claimed Life of Minor in Moorhead
A devastating tragedy unfolded in a Moorhead residence on March 21, 2021, when a minor was shot and killed with a loaded firearm. The firearm belonged to Phillip Neal Jones, Jr., a 34-year-old man with a history of prior felony convictions in Hennepin and Anoka Counties.
According to court documents, Jones was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. However, he was found to be in possession of a Walther .40 caliber pistol in his Moorhead residence. The gun was discovered by a visiting child who had wandered into the kitchen and found the loaded firearm under a large snack chip box.
Tragically, the gun went off, striking and killing a second child. The incident is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of unsecured firearms and the devastating consequences of reckless behavior.
The case is the result of investigations conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Moorhead Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amber M. Brennan is prosecuting the case on behalf of the federal government.
Phillip Neal Jones, Jr.’s guilty plea marks a significant development in the case. He faces federal charges for illegally possessing a firearm in his residence. While the exact sentence he will receive is unknown, his prior felony convictions and the severity of the offense suggest a harsh penalty is likely.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of gun safety and responsible firearms ownership. It is imperative that all individuals, particularly those with a history of violent crime, take steps to secure their firearms and prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
As this case continues to unfold, the community is left to grapple with the senseless loss of life. The memories of the child who lost their life will never be forgotten, and it is our hope that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for change and a reminder of the importance of responsible firearms ownership.
Key Facts
- State: Minnesota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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