Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook and Richland County Corner Gary Watts announce an update regarding yesterday’s shooting deaths on Truax Lane.
The Coroner’s Office has completed the autopsies on the two individuals, who have been identified as 2-year-old Kyree Myers (DOB: 12-23-14) and his father, Keon Myers (DOB: 1-24-1979).
According to Watts, Kyree Myers died from a single gunshot wound to the head; his father died as a result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
Based on witnesses information and evidence collected, CPD Investigators believe that the child found a loaded gun inside of the home and accidentally shot himself. His mother, who was home at the time, called 9-1-1 to report the incident.
Chief Holbrook says, “Our hearts are heavy at the tremendous loss of life. We have victim advocates assigned to the case to assist the family during this difficult time. This experience has also been emotionally trying for responding officers. They will participate in a debriefing to discuss the incident and receive further support as needed.”
When officers arrived at the 2400 block of Truax Lane shortly after 11 a.m. on September 6, 2017, they found Mr. Myers threatening to harm himself after the child’s severe injury. Officers made several repeated commands for Myers to drop the weapon.
EMS transported both shooting victims to a local hospital where they were pronounced deceased.
As part of the CPD investigation, investigators are working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to determine the gun’s origin and ownership.