Phoenix girl accidentally shot and killed by her older brother, PD says
PHOENIX - A five-year-old girl was killed after her 9-year-old brother accidentally shot her on Tuesday night, the Phoenix Police Department said.
What we know:
The Phoenix Police Department says officers responded to reports of a stabbing around 9 p.m. on June 3 at a behavioral hospital. But as they got on scene, they learned a little girl had actually been shot inside her home near 7th Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
She was taken to the nearby behavioral hospital by her family members who were seeking help. Then, she was taken to a trauma center by ambulance.
She died at the hospital from her injuries.
"Detectives responded and took over the investigation learning the 9-year-old brother of the victim had accidentally shot the victim inside their home.
During the investigation, detectives learned the rifle used in the shooting belonged to 33-year-old Irvin Ramos-Jimenez, the children’s father, who was later arrested and booked into MCSO jail for possession of a weapon by a prohibited person," Phoenix Police Sgt. Brian Bower said on June 4.
This incident remains under investigation.
Irvin Ramos-Jimenez
What they're saying:
Layla Ramos' family describes her as a happy little girl who was taken too soon.
They say she was a young girl with a bright smile. She was looking forward to starting school, but her life was taken away on Tuesday night while she was visiting her dad at his house.
"This isn't a simple case of a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The defendant is a prohibited possessor, but he brought a gun into a home with kids. Not just any gun, it was an assault rifle. He stored it in his nine-year-old's bedroom. If this gun had not been in the house, we wouldn't have had the outcome that we did …," the state said during a court hearing.
In his initial appearance, the judge released Ramos-Jimenez on his own recognizance and said he cant have any contact with witnesses.
Ramos' mom said her little girl had a gentle soul and was kind, soft-hearted and always so loving. She made everyone feel special with just a smile or a hug.
Ramos' aunt, Jennifer, says her niece's signature pose was the peace sign. It was fitting because she was so peaceful, bright, happy and funny, and that's how she wants Layla to be remembered.
What's next:
Police say detectives are investigating the incident.