Lawrenceville, GA – A 19-year-old Georgia man has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter after he accidentally shot his girlfriend in the head during a sleepover at her home.
Tragic Incident Occurs After Midnight
The shooting took place after midnight on Thursday at Nina Ramirez’s family home in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Police say that Sebastian Prestridge, 19, was handling a gun with his girlfriend, Nina Ramirez, also 19, and a group of friends during a sleepover. According to authorities, the couple was “playing” with the gun, unaware that it was loaded, when the gun discharged, striking Ramirez in the head.
Immediate Response and Unfortunate Outcome
When officers from the Lawrenceville Police Department arrived at the scene before 1:30 a.m., they found Ramirez suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Emergency medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene. Prestridge remained at the location and cooperated with authorities as they arrived.
Involuntary Manslaughter Charges
Prestridge was later detained and charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with Ramirez’s death. Authorities did not report any signs of foul play, and it was determined that the shooting was accidental.
Mother Speaks Out on Tragic Loss
Ramirez’s mother, Maria Carmen Ramirez, spoke to local media, expressing her grief and a surprising level of forgiveness toward Prestridge. While acknowledging the tragedy, Maria Carmen said, “He loved my daughter.” She further explained, “When you get mad and these things happen, you want to find someone guilty, but I think it was just an accident.”
Police Express Sympathy for the Family
In a statement, Captain Dena Pauly of the Lawrenceville Police Department called the incident “an incredibly tragic situation,” offering condolences to the victim’s family. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and loved ones,” Pauly said.
Prestridge Remains in Custody
Prestridge is currently being held at the Gwinnett County Jail without bond while the investigation continues. The community remains shaken by the loss of Nina Ramirez and the events leading up to her tragic death.
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