13-year-old Released in Accidental Puyallup Washington Shooting Death - Prosecutors Still Weighing Charges but Not Against the Parents

Posted on the 13 February 2014 by Mikeb302000

Eddie Holmes, 13, was accidentally shot and killed last Thursday in a Puyallup home. (Holmes family photo)


Local  news reports

A 13-year-old Puyallup boy accused of accidentally shooting and killing his friend has been released from custody as Pierce County prosecutors continue looking at whether to charge him with a crime.

"It's more important to make the right decision than quick decision," said Prosecutor Mark Lindquist. He announced Tuesday his office was reviewing evidence and the boy was released to his parents and is not considered a danger to the community. The alleged shooter has been held since Thursday's shooting death of Eddie Holmes, 13, in a Puyallup home. Police say Holmes and four other boys were hanging out when the boy who lives in the home brought out the gun to show friends. Another boy grabbed it and the gun went off, shooting Holmes in the chest. He later died at Tacoma General Hospital. Holmes' family spoke publicly for the first time Tuesday about the shooting. His mother Sandy said she doesn't blame the boys, but wants the parents held accountable for allowing access to the gun. "Kids are kids, no matter what we try to teach them and tell them they are kids. And it is up to parents to secure not only our children but the children that come into our home," she said.