Young Child Fatally Shoots 5- and 8-Year-Old Siblings, Police Say

A Kansas couple is facing felony allegations after investigators say one of their children accessed a loaded, unsecured shotgun and fatally shot a 5-year-old girl and an 8-year-old boy.

Aaron French, 37, and Makayla French, 28, have each been charged with four counts of aggravated child endangerment in connection with the deaths of 8-year-old Paxton French and 5-year-old Lilly French, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Investigators said that on March 28, a “young child” obtained the loaded firearm, which had not been properly secured, and shot two siblings inside the family’s home in Brookville, roughly 100 miles northwest of Wichita.

Lilly was declared dead at the home. Paxton was flown to a hospital for treatment but died from his injuries on April 3. The Ellsworth County attorney filed the charges on Friday.

Authorities have not disclosed how the child found the shotgun or how many rounds were fired. The charges allege the parents “recklessly” put their children at risk of physical harm.

Paxton’s obituary described him as a boy who loved riding his go-kart and four-wheeler and dreamed of someday serving in the U.S. Army.

“He loved playing Minecraft, especially when he could share that time with his siblings, laughing, building, and creating worlds together. He had a special love for his hamster, showing a gentle and caring heart in the way he took care of his little companion,” the obituary said.

Lilly enjoyed K-pop and singing and anything outdoors, her obituary said.

“Lilly loved school and had a deep love for animals, always wanting to care for and look after them,” it reads. “She also loved to swim and be active. Lilly had a kind and nurturing heart, always caring for others. She was a true princess who adored pretty clothes, dresses, shoes, and boots.”

Aaron French and Makayla French are slated to appear in court on July 28.