Casper, WY – A Wyoming man who shot his 16-year-old friend in the head during what the pair called a game of “quick draw” has now admitted responsibility, offering new insight into the series of reckless choices that led to the near-fatal incident on Mother’s Day.
How the incident unfolded on South Washington Street
According to investigators with the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting happened on May 11 outside a home on the 100 block of South Washington Street in Casper. Deputies say 21-year-old Sebastian Belden and the teen had a long-standing habit of pointing loaded handguns at each other, treating it as a game.
Authorities reported that on the night of the shooting, the two friends were “mishandling firearms”, escalating their usual behaviour. Belden later admitted he had even purchased a gun for the 16-year-old, further normalising the dangerous activity.
A single shot that changed everything
What had previously been reckless play turned tragic when Belden’s handgun fired. The bullet struck the teen above his left eye, exiting behind his left ear. Despite the severity of the wound, the teen survived and was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
Belden told investigators the shooting was accidental and completely unexpected.
“It was a one-in-a-million fluke kind of thing because the safety on my gun was on,” he reportedly said. “I didn’t even know I had a live round in the chamber.”
Witnesses and a request to lie to police
Belden’s fiancée and two minors were present during the incident, according to authorities. When panic set in, Belden initially urged witnesses to tell officers he had tripped with the weapon and it accidentally discharged.
Deputies later confirmed that this version of events was fabricated.
Belden admits guilt and faces up to 10 years
Local reporting, including coverage from Cowboy State Daily and Oil City News, confirms that Belden has now pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and battery. As part of his plea agreement with the Natrona County District Attorney’s Office, he faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
The severity of the charge reflects both the reckless handling of a weapon and the life-threatening injury inflicted on a minor.
An apology letter and signs of remorse
Despite initially misleading witnesses, Belden ultimately expressed remorse while in custody. Detention officers reported that he wrote an apology letter addressed to the victim’s family.
According to an affidavit referenced by local outlets:
“The note expressed regret and remorse on behalf of Belden for hurting the teen. The note also indicated that the shooting was a ‘terrible accident’ and asked for the family’s forgiveness.”
Authorities noted that his emotional state shifted significantly after the incident, with Belden acknowledging the gravity of his choices.
Risks of firearm misuse among young adults
This case highlights ongoing concerns about unsafe firearm handling, especially among young adults who may treat weapons as props or toys. Firearm safety experts consistently warn that:
- Every firearm should be treated as loaded, even when the user assumes otherwise.
- Pointing a gun at another person, even in jest, violates the most fundamental safety rules.
Deputies emphasised that this shooting shows how quickly routine misuse can turn into a life-altering tragedy.
Community reaction and legal expectations
The case has drawn significant local attention, particularly given the victim’s age and the casual nature of the behaviour that led to the shooting. Prosecutors argue that Belden’s awareness of the risks makes the guilty plea appropriate, especially after encouraging others to provide false statements.
Sentencing will determine whether Belden receives the maximum prison term or a reduced sentence based on cooperation and remorse.
Final thoughts
The shooting underscores the devastating consequences of unsafe firearm habits. What the individuals considered a “game” nearly cost a teenager his life and now leaves Belden facing years behind bars. Authorities hope the case serves as a clear warning to others about the dangers of treating weapons carelessly.
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