A man in United State’s Illinois has been charged with reckless discharge of a firearm after his 14-year-old daughter was fatally shot in a tragic accident. The incident occurred on July 21 when the man David Schultheis, while attempting to shoot a bird near his home, accidentally fired a round that passed through the bird, shattered a window and struck his daughter Emma Schultheis, who was nearby. The teenager, just six days shy of her 15th birthday, was immediately treated by first responders and transported to a hospital. She was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Authorities announced on September 2 that David had been formally charged following a month-long investigation. Officials confirmed that he had aimed at the bird, which had flown into a brick structure at the time. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence.
Investigation and charges
Karen Schwarze, a woman, was also charged with concealment of a homicidal death and obstruction of justice. However, Karen’s relationship with the victim has not been cleared by the authorities. Officials stated that Schwarze hid the .40-calibre pistol used in the shooting and pressured others to remain silent during the initial investigation.
The sheriff’s department released a statement saying, “The investigation revealed that following the execution of search warrants, Ms. Schwarze attempted to influence others not to speak with law enforcement officers during the early stages of the investigation.”
However, David voluntarily surrendered to the Monroe County Jail and was subsequently released. Schwarze is in the process of turning herself in.
Sheriff’s statement and community reaction
Authorities described the event as a profoundly sad tragedy. The sheriff’s department released a statement saying, “There are no words that can adequately express the heartbreak and gravity of this tragic event. While this incident may have been preventable, our obligation is not to dwell in speculation but to uncover and present the facts with integrity.”
The heartbreaking case has garnered significant attention, with many residents and community members now calling for stricter firearm safety measures to prevent similar future incidents.