Just this summer, Bexar County launched a campaign called Bexar Responsibly to promote gun safety.
SAN ANTONIO — Firearms are the leading cause of death in children in Bexar County. That was enough of a reason for Bexar County leaders to launch the campaign: Bexar Responsibly.
It comes as a family is grappling with the pain of losing their 8-year-old boy in what they described as an accidental shooting Friday. The boy’s older brother is facing a manslaughter charge, accused of shooting him.
In Juvenile Court Monday, a judge ordered the teen to be detained as his father cried out in grief.
Police on scene Friday said the shooting may have been caused while a group of kids were playing with a gun. However, it is still unclear where the gun came from.
Judge William Cruz told the teen, “Regardless of accident or not, he should not have had access to gun at all.”
In Bexar County, about half of the households reported having at least one gun.
Jennifer Luna is the assistant public information officer with Bexar County. She said the goal of Bexar Responsibly is to change the mindset of gun owners.
“Kids are curious, accidents just happen and some accidents, you can’t take back,” Luna said.
The campaign focuses on three simple tips: secure it, store it and talk about it.
She said it is important for parents to not only have conversations with their children about the dangers of guns but with each other.
“We just don’t want those guns in the wrong hands, that’s basically what it’s about,” Luna said.
The county is working on providing free gun safety courses for residents in the coming months. In the meantime, you can learn more on their website.
“97% of our gun owners know that it is good to take a gun safety course yet only two thirds only take a gun safety course so through this campaign we’re trying to bridge that gap,” Luna said.
8-year-old remembered as a ‘beautiful soul’
Meanwhile, we are learning more about the 8-year-old victim who has been identified as Daniel Casares.
His mother released this statement online:
“Daniel was a beautiful soul with a kind and gentle heart. He loved deeply and wholeheartedly—his brothers and sisters, his friends, and every teacher who touched his life at Kate Schenck Elementary. Daniel had a special way of lighting up every room. He was full of personality, always making us laugh with his playful spirit and unforgettable sense of humor. His smile and laughter were truly contagious, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. Daniel dreamed of becoming an aircraft pilot one day—he absolutely loved jets and anything that flew. It was a passion that reflected his adventurous spirit and big dreams. Our sweet boy will be deeply missed, but his love, light, and laughter will forever live in our hearts. We will carry him with us always.”
If you would like to help the family, there is a GoFundMe set up.