Jul 21, 2021

Police: 19-year-old Kansas man dies after gun accident

Posted Jul 21, 2021 9:00 PM
Williams -photo Sedgwick County
Williams -photo Sedgwick County

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged accidental shooting and have made an arrest.

Just after 8 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call at the apartment complex in the 500 block of North Nims in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Upon arrival, officers located 19-year-old Jyrez Ricks of Wichita in the parking lot who had been shot. Ricks was pronounced deceased on the scene, according to Davidson.

The investigation revealed 21-year-old Jordan Williams was handling a handgun inside the apartment occupied by Ricks and three other adult friends. The gun accidentally discharged, striking Ricks.

Police contacted Williams on the scene and arrested without incident on a requested charge of involuntary manslaughter.

Davidson reminded the importance of practicing gun safety.

If you own a gun:

• Always store guns unloaded and security locked;

• Use a gun case, gun safe, or lockbox for safer storage;

• Store ammunition in a separate location; and

• Talk to your children about gun safety.

If you find a gun, leave it alone and tell an adult;

• Always assume a gun is loaded;

• Never point a gun at anyone; and

• Ask your parents about proper gun safety.

Practice gun safety to protect yourself and your family.