Toddler’s Unintended Action Sparks Debate on Gun Safety and Storage

Revolvers and bullets on a dark surface.

A tragic accident in Fresno, California, leaves a young mother dead and raises critical questions about firearm safety in homes with children.

At a Glance

Jessinya Mina, 22, was accidentally shot and killed by her 2-year-old son
The unsecured firearm belonged to Mina’s boyfriend, Andrew Sanchez
Sanchez was arrested and charged with negligent storage of a firearm and child endangerment
The incident has sparked renewed discussions on proper firearm storage and safety

Tragic Incident Unfolds in Fresno Apartment

On a fateful day in Fresno, California, a horrifying scene unfolded that would forever change the lives of a young family. Jessinya Mina, a 22-year-old mother of two, lost her life in what authorities are calling a preventable tragedy. The incident occurred in the family’s northern California apartment while Mina and her boyfriend, Andrew Sanchez, were in bed.

According to police reports, Mina’s 2-year-old son somehow gained access to a loaded 9mm Keltec pistol belonging to Sanchez. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the toddler accidentally discharged the weapon, fatally wounding his mother. Despite immediate efforts to save her life, including attempts by Sanchez and roommates to transport her to a hospital, Mina was pronounced dead upon arrival at the medical facility.

The Fresno Police Department says the gun used to shoot and kill a woman on Friday was not safely stored and was found by a toddler. The 18-year-old owner of the gun was arrested.https://t.co/F9UPxEt44k

— FOX26 News (@KMPHFOX26) December 9, 2024

Negligent Firearm Storage at the Heart of Tragedy

The Fresno Police Department has emphasized that this devastating incident was entirely preventable. The firearm in question, which lacked an external safety feature, was left unsecured and accessible to the young child. This negligence led to the arrest of Andrew Sanchez, who now faces charges of criminal storage of a firearm and child endangerment. “This is very tragic, and a very much preventable and avoidable incident. He left that firearm in an area that was accessible to a 2 ½-year-old toddler at that location.” reported Lt. Paul Cervantes

Fresno Police Lieutenant Paul Cervantes highlighted the gravity of the situation, underscoring the importance of proper firearm storage. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when firearms are not secured, especially in households with young children.

Family’s Grief and Ongoing Investigation

The loss of Jessinya Mina has left her family devastated. Her sister, Jessica Rodriguez, shared poignant memories of Mina, describing her as a “beautiful and funny” person who “could put a smile on anyone’s face.” Rodriguez also revealed that Mina had previously expressed concerns about having a gun in the house, a wish that was tragically ignored.

As the community grapples with this tragedy, authorities continue their investigation. The Fresno Police Department is working in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to trace the ownership of the firearm. While the incident is currently not considered murder, further investigation could potentially lead to manslaughter charges.

A Call for Responsible Gun Ownership

This heart-wrenching incident has reignited discussions about responsible gun ownership and the critical importance of proper firearm storage. Law enforcement officials are using this tragedy as an opportunity to educate the public on gun safety measures, particularly in homes with children.

As the investigation continues and the community mourns, the focus remains on preventing similar tragedies in the future. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the responsibilities that come with gun ownership and the devastating consequences that can result from neglecting those duties.