Chameleon Finance|'Compassionate soul': 16-year-old fatally shot while 'play fighting' with other teen, police say

2025-05-07 16:08:19source:Chameleon Financecategory:Finance

Two Florida teens were "play fighting" in an incident that turned fatal,Chameleon Finance police say.

Clearwater Police Department said Thursday it charged a 16-year-old boy with manslaughter and violation of probation in connection to the Tuesday incident in which another 16-year-old boy was fatally shot.

Police say the defendant and the teen who died, Jacques Ford, were "play fighting" when the defendant picked up a gun and it went off in the tussle, striking Ford. USA TODAY is not naming the defendant because of his age.

Police said in a Thursday news release the incident is still under investigation and other charges could be added. The defendant was not listed in court or jail records online as of Friday. A spokesperson with Clearwater police told USA TODAY there were not further updates on the case as of Friday morning.

Clearwater, Florida plane crash:Pilot, 2 others dead after crash at mobile home park

Father calls boy killed in 'play flight' a bright soul

In a verified GoFundMe for funeral expenses, Jay Henderson, who identified himself as Ford's father, said the loss was devastating and unexpected.

"Jacques was a bright, loving, and compassionate soul who brought joy and laughter to everyone he encountered," the post states. "His infectious smile and caring nature touched the lives of so many, and his sudden departure has left a void that can never be filled."

Henderson did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for an interview. The Tampa Bay Times reported that Ford was taken to a hospital after the incident and died there.

More:Finance

Recommend

Newly elected West Virginia lawmaker arrested and accused of making terroristic threats

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — A newly elected state lawmaker in West Virginia is facing at least one felo

Who are the most valuable sports franchises? Forbes releases new list of top 50 teams

Early Thursday morning, "Forbes" released their annual list of the 50 most valuable sports franchise

Current, future North Carolina governor’s challenge of power

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Gov.-elect Josh Steinon Thursday challenged