Indianapolis, IN – A heartbreaking tragedy in Indianapolis has led to the temporary loss of custody for 28-year-old Keiara Bickett, whose 2-year-old son, Javarius Bickett, fatally shot himself with her handgun in June. The incident has prompted serious legal consequences, including a neglect charge and a no-contact order regarding her 9-year-old daughter.
The case highlights the grave dangers of unsecured firearms and the profound ripple effects of such accidental tragedies on families and communities.
A Devastating Incident at CVS Parking Lot
On June 19, 2024, Indianapolis Metro Police responded to a shooting report near East 46th Street and Keystone Avenue. Keiara Bickett reported that her young son, Javarius, had accidentally shot himself in the head while they were parked. Despite emergency efforts at Riley Hospital, Javarius succumbed to his injuries.
- Javarius, aged 2, was in the family car when the shooting occurred
- Keiara’s daughter, then 8 years old, was also present in the car
- The firearm involved was a 9mm Glock Model 26 Gen 5 handgun owned by Keiara
- The gun was reportedly kept in Keiara’s purse, which may not have been fully zipped that day
The situation unfolded as Keiara tried to pick up a prescription at CVS. Court documents and police interviews reveal that the children were not properly restrained, with Javarius out of his car seat and eventually in his sister’s lap when the shooting happened.
Legal Actions and Custody Changes
Following the incident, Keiara was charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in death, a Level 1 felony carrying a possible 20 to 40 years in prison if convicted. On September 5, 2024, the court ordered a no-contact order between Keiara and her 9-year-old daughter, who will be cared for by her grandmother pending the next hearing.
- Keiara must find alternate housing due to proximity with her mother
- The Indiana Department of Child Services will review the case before the next hearing on September 22, 2024
- Keiara has expressed her intention to hire legal representation
Family’s Grief and Perspectives
Keiara’s mother, Melissa Etheridge, spoke emotionally about the tragedy and the charges.
“It was an absolute accident. She may have had negligence for not having the gun in a safe place, but she would never harm any of her children. She loves her kids to death. It’s tearing me up. It’s tearing her daughter up.”
Etheridge emphasized Keiara’s dedication as a mother, stating passionately that the narrative labeling her as an evil person is unjust.
“She is a great mother. She takes care of her children. She does not do anything that would ever harm her children. They have everything they want, everything they need.”
Critical Safety and Legal Implications
This tragic case underlines the crucial importance of securing firearms, especially in homes with young children. Police recovered the gun with a fired cartridge and a loaded magazine from the driver’s side floorboard, reinforcing concerns about gun safety protocols in the household.
- Gun safety experts advise always keeping firearms unloaded and locked away, out of reach of children
- Indiana law mandates strict firearm storage requirements to prevent accidents
- Courts may impose severe penalties for neglect leading to child injury or death, as seen in this case
What’s Next for Keiara Bickett and Her Family?
The next court hearing on September 22, 2024, will be pivotal in determining the future custody arrangements and potential legal consequences for Keiara. The involvement of child protective services and further judicial review aims to ensure the safety and well-being of her daughter moving forward.
Keiara is currently seeking legal counsel and must comply with the court’s orders while navigating this difficult period. The community watches closely as this case unfolds amid broader conversations about child safety and firearm responsibility.
What do you think about this case and the legal consequences faced by Keiara Bickett? Have you ever encountered challenges with firearm safety around children? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
