A 2-year-old toddler was accidentally shot and killed by his 4-year-old cousin during a family vacation in Florida intended to celebrate the child's third birthday. The incident occurred just before 4 p.m. Sunday at the Cove East at Storey Lake rental community in Kissimmee, according to the Osceola County Sheriff's Office (OCSO).
Details of the Incident
The two young boys were left inside a vehicle while adults went to check into the rental property. The 4-year-old cousin located an unsecured and unholstered handgun belonging to Brayden's mother inside the car. Family members were outside the vehicle when they heard a gunshot. Brayden Tennyson was rushed to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, where he was later pronounced dead. One family member was also taken to the hospital with chest pains due to the distress caused by the incident.
Family's Heartbreak
“There are no words to describe the heartbreak our family is experiencing,” a relative wrote on a GoFundMe fundraiser organized to bring Brayden's body back to Georgia. “What was meant to be a joyful vacation to Orlando to celebrate sweet Brayden’s 3rd birthday has turned into an unimaginable tragedy.” The fundraiser noted that Tuesday should have been filled with birthday candles, laughter, hugs, and happy memories, but instead the family is mourning the loss of a beautiful little boy.
The family had traveled from Louisville, Georgia, to Kissimmee, Florida, for the celebration. Brayden's aunt, Dalfornia Tennyson, told WESH News 2: “His birthday is today. Brayden was 2 years old. He was a real sweet child. Real friendly.” She described him as a happy toddler who loved gummy fruit snacks and cookies, often saying, “Auntie, I want a snack!”
Sister's Tribute
Brayden's sister remembered him as “very smart” and a “very happy baby.” She wrote: “I remember we used to come from school & he used to be waiting on us at the door screaming because he was happy to see us. He always loved eating all my food. He was just learning how to say my name & learning how to go to the bathroom by himself. I hate this happened to him.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Osceola County Sheriff's Office said the investigation remains ongoing and charges are possible pending review by the State Attorney's Office. The firearm was left unsecured in the vehicle, a factor that contributed to the tragic accident. The incident underscores the critical importance of safe gun storage, especially in households with children.
