No Charges in Plymouth Boy’s Shooting Death

After a year-long investigation, prosecutors will not file charges in the death of a 7-year-old Plymouth boy who shot himself with a gun he found in his home.

Keyaris Samuels died in May 2018 from a gunshot wound to the head. Police learned that the boy had opened a hoverboard box that was stored in a bedroom, found a loaded handgun and accidentally fired it.

Investigators also found a box of ammunition in a diaper bag. The boy’s mom was not home at the time of the shooting. A total of four children lived in the home. 

Plymouth police say they exhausted all leads making the case inactive. Authorities conducted interviews, collected DNA samples and analyzed cellphones in an attempt to find the culprit. Plymouth Public Safety Director Mike Goldstein says he’s disappointed no charges could be filed.

“This little boy was 7 years old, and he should still be here today interacting with his family, going to school and growing up to become a productive member of society. He doesn’t get that chance because of someone else’s irresponsibility,” said Goldstein.

After reviewing the case, both the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office and the city attorney’s office agreed there was not enough evidence to proceed with filing criminal charges.

Plymouth police say they could reopen the case if any new information becomes available.

Plymouth