10-Year-Old Texas Boy Admits to Shooting Man in RV Park, Avoids Murder Charges Due to Age
In a shocking incident, a 10-year-old boy in Texas admitted to shooting a man to death two years ago, but will not face murder charges due to his age. The boy, who was 8 years old at the time of the crime, shot 32-year-old Brandon O’Quinn Rasberry in the head while he slept at an RV park in Nixon, Texas.
The boy obtained a gun from his grandfather’s truck and shot Rasberry, who had just moved into the park. The child confessed to the crime after threatening to assault and kill a student on a school bus. The murder weapon was located at a pawn shop and linked to the crime.
While the boy was placed in juvenile detention for a terroristic threat charge, he will not be charged with murder as criminal culpability begins at age 10 in Texas.
Age of Criminal Responsibility
The age of criminal responsibility varies across the United States, but in Texas, children under the age of 10 are not considered criminally responsible for their actions. This means that the 10-year-old boy in this case cannot be charged with murder, even though he admitted to the crime.
Mental Health Concerns
The boy’s father expressed concern about his son’s mental well-being and stated that he needs prayers and comfort. The boy was evaluated at a psychiatric hospital and is receiving treatment.
Call for Action
This incident highlights the need for increased attention to child gun violence and mental health issues. It is crucial to ensure that children have access to resources and support to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.