St. Paul man guilty after 13-year-old shoots 11-year-old boy

In St. Paul, Minnesota, a 33-year-old man named Martinez Castillo Lloyd was found guilty of multiple gun-related offenses following a tragic incident involving his 13-year-old niece and an 11-year-old boy. The shooting occurred on March 29, when the young girl, while handling one of Lloyd's firearms, accidentally shot the boy in the head inside Lloyd's apartment. At the time, several children were present, including Lloyd's own children and their friends, all aged between 10 and 13 years old. Lloyd had left the apartment briefly to go to the store, leaving the firearms in an unlocked drawer that was accessible to the children. Despite having previously warned the children about playing with the guns, he had not secured them properly. The firearms were typically stored unloaded in a high cabinet, but on this occasion, they were left in a location that the juveniles could easily reach. Due to a prior felony conviction, Lloyd was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. The court found him guilty of illegal possession of a firearm and negligent storage of firearms, highlighting the serious implications of his actions. The incident raises concerns about gun safety and the responsibilities of firearm owners, particularly in households with children. Lloyd's sentencing hearing is set for November 6, where the court will determine the consequences of his actions. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of secure firearm storage and the potential dangers posed when firearms are not properly safeguarded in homes with minors.