In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a 25-year-old Tennessee woman, Breanna Runions, has been charged with murder after fatally shooting a four-year-old girl, Evangaline Gunter.
The shooting took place in Rockwood, Tennessee, and resulted in the tragic death of the young child.
Desperate Rush for Medical Help
After the shooting, Runions and her girlfriend took a seriously injured Evangaline and rushed to seek medical assistance.
They dialed 911 while en route and met emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in a Walmart parking lot.
Despite their efforts, the child was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Conflicting Accounts Unveiled
Initially, Runions claimed that the shooting was part of a firearm safety training exercise, asserting that she had ensured the gun was unloaded before pointing it at Evangaline’s chest.
However, her girlfriend provided a conflicting account to authorities.
According to the girlfriend, Runions had been punishing Evangaline and another seven-year-old child.
The punishment stemmed from the children’s failure to wake the adults and their unauthorized consumption of food belonging to Runions’ girlfriend.
Disturbing Sequence of Events
The girlfriend reported that Runions struck both children with a sandal and ordered them to stand in separate corners of the bedroom.
Shockingly, Runions then produced a gun, removed the magazine, called Evangaline over, and shot her in the chest.
During this horrifying incident, the girlfriend and the seven-year-old were present in the room but had their backs turned away, averting their gaze from the shooting.
Instead, they heard the gunshot, which struck a glass bottle, sending shards that injured the other child.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigation
Breanna Runions is currently incarcerated, with a bond set at $1.5 million.
The district attorney, Russell Johnson, anticipates a grand jury hearing in February to further assess the case.
In light of this tragedy, the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) is conducting an investigation.
Previous reports concerning the children residing in the same household have come to the attention of the DCS.
Heartbroken Parents’ Regrets
Evangaline’s parents, Josie and Adam Gunter, expressed their grief and regret over the situation.
While the courts had placed their daughter with Runions, they believed it was only a temporary arrangement.
Josie Gunter expressed profound guilt, wishing she had been more attentive as a mother.
The parents reminisced about their daughter’s vibrant spirit, particularly cherishing her warm hugs and infectious smile.
A Call for Responsible Gun Ownership
Adam Gunter, in the wake of this tragedy, emphasized the importance of responsible gun ownership and child safety.
He urged others to keep firearms secured and out of reach to prevent such devastating incidents from occurring in the future.
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