ANKARA, Florida — An 11-year-old boy has been taken into custody and charged with shooting his 55-year-old aunt in their home, a tragic incident that has left family members questioning the child’s understanding of his actions.
The shooting occurred on May 17 at a residence on Idaho Court in Ocoee, according to a statement from the Ocoee Police Department. Responding to a call about a shooting, officers found Sandra Pape King, 55, shot inside the home. Despite efforts to save her, King succumbed to her injuries while being transported to Advent Health Apopka.
The boy appeared in juvenile court on Saturday. Attended by several family members, the hearing resulted in the judge granting the family’s request to visit the boy during his detention. One of his cousins expressed doubt about the boy’s comprehension of the situation, stating, “He doesn’t understand what’s going on. I don’t even think he knows he killed her.”
Reports from witnesses suggest that shouting preceded the shooting, with King found injured in the driveway. Local NBC affiliate WESH reported that her purse was found nearby in the grass. The relationship between the boy and his aunt was highlighted by a neighbor who had recently spoken to them. The neighbor mentioned that he had seen them together on previous occasions.
The circumstances surrounding the boy’s access to a gun remain unclear. Police removed several bags of evidence from the home while investigating the incident.