Phoenix, AZ – A Phoenix father, Irvin Eduardo Ramos-Jimenez, has been charged after his 9-year-old son accidentally shot and killed his 5-year-old sister, Layla Ramos, with an AR-style rifle that was allegedly stored in the child’s bedroom.
Incident Details and Charges
On June 3, Ramos-Jimenez’s young son reportedly found the unsecured AR-style rifle that was stored in his bedroom by his father. After discovering the firearm, the boy tragically shot his younger sister, Layla, in the torso.
Upon hearing the loud bang, Ramos-Jimenez, 33, rushed into his son’s bedroom and found his daughter critically injured. Neighbors reported seeing the boy running out of the house, screaming after the incident.
Phoenix police officers responded to a report of a critically injured child at the intersection of 7th Avenue and Broadway Boulevard, where they confirmed that Layla had suffered a gunshot wound.
Ramos-Jimenez initially told investigators that his daughter had been stabbed, but it was later confirmed that she had been shot. Layla was transported to the hospital but tragically died from her injuries shortly thereafter.
Father’s Criminal History and Firearm Possession
Ramos-Jimenez had been previously prohibited from owning firearms due to a prior drug trafficking conviction, according to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Despite this, he reportedly stored the weapon in his child’s bedroom, leading to the tragic incident.
The father faces felony charges for child abuse, domestic violence, and misconduct involving a weapon. His trial is scheduled to begin on March 5, 2026.
Community Impact and Memorial
The community mourns the loss of Layla Ramos, who was described in a fundraiser as a “so loving, smart, and truly beautiful soul,” a “little princess who got her wings way too soon.” The tragedy has prompted local authorities and activists to push for stronger regulations regarding firearm storage, especially around children.
Legal Implications and Public Response
Ramos-Jimenez’s case has sparked a conversation about gun safety, especially in households with children. Legal experts stress the importance of securing firearms to prevent accidents, with many pointing to the father’s previous conviction as a red flag in this case.
Next Steps and Updates
As the trial approaches, the community remains shaken by the devastating consequences of what many view as a preventable tragedy. Authorities are continuing to advocate for stronger laws to ensure that weapons are not left accessible to minors, particularly in homes where gun ownership is legally restricted.
What are your thoughts on the safety of firearms in households with children? Share your comments below.
