SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A 10-year-old California boy tragically lost his life after being shot by another 10-year-old boy in Foothill Farms, a community northeast of Sacramento. The incident occurred following an informal bicycle race, where the shooter allegedly became upset after losing and proceeded to open fire, killing Keith “KJ” Frierson. According to KJ’s mother, Brittani Frierson, the shooter’s actions were that of a “sore loser” based on eyewitness accounts from a neighbor’s child who was present during the incident.
Frierson gave KJ permission to ride his bicycle, a Christmas gift he had longed for, before the attack. Less than 15 minutes later, neighbors alerted Frierson to the tragedy, and she rushed outside to find her son fatally wounded. The shooter, whose name was withheld because of his age, was arrested on suspicion of murder, while his father was detained on various firearm-related charges.
Authorities believe the shooting occurred after the boy retrieved the gun from his father’s car and bragged about it before shooting KJ in the neck. This heartbreaking incident has left the community and KJ’s family reeling, as they remember the young boy as generous, smart, and helpful to those around him. The Sacramento Youth Football team Jr. Football Mustangs, of which KJ was a member, mourned his loss in a statement, saying he “will truly be missed by all of your Mustangs family and friends.”
The fact that a 10-year-old boy lost his life in a senseless act of violence is a tragedy that has deeply impacted the community. The careless storage and accessibility of firearms in the home have also prompted concerns about the safety of children in the neighborhood. The devastating outcome of this incident serves as a painful reminder of the importance of gun safety and responsible firearm ownership, especially when children are present.
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, the community has come together to mourn the loss of a young life and advocate for the importance of responsible gun ownership and safety. The impact of KJ’s death will be felt for years to come, as the community grapples with the devastating consequences of this senseless act of violence.