Walworth County, Wisconsin – Authorities in Wisconsin say an 8-year-old boy was fatally shot by his 53-year-old stepfather, Steven Merkel, who admitted he was trying to “look cool” while showing off guns in the middle of the night. The disturbing case, which began as a late-night display of firearms, ended in tragedy and has now resulted in a 25-year prison sentence for Merkel.
Tragic Late-Night Incident Leaves 8-Year-Old Dead
According to investigators, the child — Michael Meagher (8) — was shot in the arm and neck inside Merkel’s home on Jan. 20. The boy later died at a nearby hospital despite emergency life-saving efforts.
This report is based on details released by prosecutors and statements from the Town of Geneva Police Department and Walworth County District Attorney’s Office.
Incident Overview
Authorities say the shooting occurred shortly after 2:25 a.m., when officers and firefighters rushed to the home in response to an emergency call. When they arrived, they found young Michael suffering from a single gunshot wound that proved fatal.
Merkel, who was described as “frantic” and covered in blood, initially told officers that the shooting was an accident. He later admitted to investigators that he was “doing something stupid” and that Michael “wasn’t at fault.”
‘Trying to Look Cool’: What Led to the Shooting
During questioning, Merkel told police he had removed the magazine from a 9 mm handgun and believed it would not fire. He then pointed the gun at the child and pulled the trigger, firing a bullet that entered Michael’s upper arm or shoulder and exited through his neck — an injury prosecutors described as consistent with a defensive posture.
Judge Kristine E. Drettwan later questioned Merkel’s explanation in court, saying:
“How is it cool and exciting to point a gun at an 8-year-old boy?”
She also emphasized that Merkel took the firearm out at around 2:00 a.m., apparently to entertain or impress a child who looked up to him.
Timeline of Events
- 2:25 a.m. – Police and fire personnel arrived at Merkel’s home.
- They found Michael Meagher, 8, gravely wounded.
- Life-saving efforts were performed, but the child died at a local hospital.
- Merkel told officers he was trying to “look cool” while playing video games with Michael.
- He claimed he thought the gun wouldn’t fire because the magazine was removed.
Authorities also revealed that Merkel had two rum cocktails that evening, though his blood alcohol level was 0.02, considered below impairment.
History of Dangerous Behavior
Investigators said Merkel admitted to previously showing the child guns — even pointing a handgun toward him during past incidents and ordering him to listen.
Judge Drettwan highlighted how Merkel also showed Michael a stun gun, “popping it” and pointing it toward the frightened child while the boy was “squirming away.”
The judge questioned why an adult needed to mix alcohol, firearms, and children, calling the situation “senseless and preventable.”
Charges and Sentencing
Merkel pleaded guilty in August to first-degree reckless homicide. On Thursday, the court sentenced him to:
- 25 years in prison
- 10 years of extended supervision
His attorney requested a lower sentence of 11 years, arguing that Merkel felt remorse and repeatedly expressed regret.
Merkel addressed the court directly, saying:
“I’m here to accept responsibility for my actions… I’d like to apologize to the victims affected in this tragedy.”
Community Reaction and Judge’s Remarks
Judge Drettwan said this case ranks among the most painful she has ever handled:
“This is one of the toughest cases, because of the senseless and absolutely preventable death of an innocent 8-year-old boy who just wanted to hang out with an adult he trusted.”
She emphasized that the tragedy was avoidable and devastating not only for the family but also for the entire community.
Gun Safety Awareness
This case has reignited discussions around gun safety, especially in homes with children. Safety experts stress that:
- Firearms should always be stored unloaded
- Children should never be shown or handled guns
- Alcohol and firearms should never mix
- Adults must ensure strict precautions when minors are present
Tragedies like Michael’s highlight the real dangers of careless firearm handling, even by adults who claim they “didn’t mean harm.”
Conclusion
The heartbreaking death of 8-year-old Michael Meagher has left a Wisconsin community grieving and raises urgent questions about responsible gun ownership. Merkel’s lengthy sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and the irreplaceable loss suffered by Michael’s loved ones.
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