DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in DeKalb County this week, where 5-year-old Kayden Bennett was shot and killed after his twin sibling found a loaded firearm in their mother’s purse. The incident, which occurred inside their apartment at The Village at Wesley Chapel, has left the local community shaken and mourning the tragic loss of a young life.
Authorities say Kayden was fatally wounded after his twin sibling gained access to the unsecured weapon left inside a bedroom by their mother, 25-year-old Lanecia Bennett. Investigators report that the firearm was stored in her purse and placed within reach of the children. At some point, one of the twins discovered the gun and accidentally discharged it, fatally striking Kayden.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of a child shot. Despite swift efforts by medics, Kayden was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mother Faces Serious Charges
Though Lanecia Bennett did not fire the weapon, police have charged her with second-degree murder and cruelty to children, holding her accountable for failing to secure the firearm in a home with minors present. Officials emphasized that her actions—or lack thereof—created an environment where tragedy became inevitable.
“This is a heartbreaking and completely preventable incident,” said a spokesperson for the DeKalb County Police Department. “Kayden should still be alive today. This is why responsible gun ownership is critical, especially around children.”
Bennett appeared before a judge for her first court hearing, where she was denied bond and ordered to remain in custody pending further proceedings.
Community in Grief
Residents at The Village at Wesley Chapel shared their sorrow and disbelief. Kayden, described as energetic, sweet, and full of life, had often been seen playing with his sibling in the neighborhood.
“To hear that little Kayden is gone—it just crushed all of us,” said one neighbor. “We saw those kids all the time. They were innocent. This didn’t have to happen.”
A Stark Reminder of the Risks
Kayden’s death has reignited calls from safety advocates to reinforce the importance of responsible gun storage. According to Everytown for Gun Safety, hundreds of unintentional shootings by children occur every year across the U.S., often involving unsecured guns in the home.
“Gun owners must take every possible step to ensure their firearms are inaccessible to children,” said a spokesperson from Moms Demand Action. “This tragic loss is a devastating reminder of why that matters so much.”
Ongoing Investigation
The DeKalb County Police Department continues to investigate the case. The surviving twin sibling, whose name has not been released, is receiving care and will likely receive trauma support services. Meanwhile, the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services is involved to ensure the child’s wellbeing going forward.
As the community mourns the loss of Kayden Bennett, support is pouring in for the family, even as questions and heartbreak remain.
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