RICHMOND, Va. -- The shooting death of a four-year-old girl Friday night in Richmond was ruled a "tragic accident" by Richmond Police detectives.
Geonna Bradley was struck and killed by a pellet fired from a pellet gun. Another child fired the gun along the 1500 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.
"After extensive interviews and in consultation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, detectives have determined this incident to be a tragic accident," Richmond Police spokesman Gene Lepley wrote in an email Saturday.
Bradley’s family gathered Saturday to support each other during the difficult time.
"I rather be in her place and she be here," grandmother Barbara Bradley said. "I just want to see her, and I miss her so much. I'm sorry that this tragedy happened. I miss my Grandbaby. I need to be with her."
Geonna's aunt described the child as a happy-go-lucky kid who loved music and always had a smile on her face.
"It's surreal. I can't believe my niece is gone,” aunt Najma Bennett said.
Neither police nor family members wanted to talk about the circumstances that led to the accidental shooting, nor identify the child who pulled the trigger on the pellet gun.
"Keep your kids in your heart. Tell them you love them. Don't take nothing from them. Just love them,” Bradley said.
Family members said they would lean on each other and their faith to get through this devastating loss. They asked for prayers during this difficult time.
In additional to planning a vigil for the child, they also planned to set-up a memorial fund to help cover funeral costs.
