Uncle charged with manslaughter in shooting death of 12-year-old nephew
Cesar Chavez, 22, is charged with manslaughter. (Photo: Houston Police Department)
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - Charges have been filed against the uncle of a 12-year-old boy who was shot and killed in an incident last Friday.
Cesar Chavez, 22, is charged with manslaughter in the 228th State District Court.
BACKGROUND: 12-year-old boy fatally shot on Velma Ave., possible suspect detained: HPD
The shooting occurred on the 6000 block of Velma Lane, just before 6:30 p.m.
When authorities arrived, they found the 12-year-old boy, Chavez' nephew, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said Chavez told investigators his nephew was playing with a toy gun, and he wanted to play with him.
MORE: 'Awful incident': Young child reportedly killed by brother playing with shotgun
That's when, according to authorities, Chavez grabbed the weapon, thinking it was unloaded, and fired, striking the victim.
Chavez was later arrested and charged.
Bond for Chavez was set at $100,000.