COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS/Gray News ) – A teenager in South Carolina was shot and killed while his friend was cleaning a gun, according to authorities.
Richland County Sheriff’s Office said Jayen Gladden, 15, was shot Sunday morning. His 14-year-old friend is charged with involuntary manslaughter and possession of a weapon by a minor.
Investigators said the 14-year-old was cleaning a handgun when it went off, hitting Jayen in his upper body. He was taken to a local hospital where he later died.
“It’s sad as a coroner to have to zip up a young person in a body bag,” Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said.
Fifth Circuit Solicitor Byron Gipson said the 14-year-old will go through family court before his office can determine if they will charge him as an adult.
The sheriff’s department is currently investigating where the gun came from.
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