Boy Dies from Gunshot Wound to Head Days Before his 7th Birthday Leading to Charges: Cops

A tragic incident in Wisconsin has led to the arrest of Daquela Collins and her brother Quintell Collins following the death of her 6-year-old son, Da’quel “King” Collins. The boy died from a gunshot wound to the head on April 1, just three days before his seventh birthday. Authorities have filed charges against the siblings for neglect, leading to the child’s death.

The Events Leading to the Tragic Death

The incident occurred when Da’quel’s grandmother called 911 around 9:30 p.m. on April 1, reporting that she believed her grandson had shot himself. She stated that she was in bed when she heard a loud bang. Upon rushing into the living room, she found the boy lying in a pool of blood with a gun next to his foot. Paramedics arrived but confirmed that the boy was already dead. Detectives soon began investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Although the criminal complaint does not explicitly say how the boy was shot, it suggests that Da’quel may have gotten hold of a gun and accidentally fired it. Surveillance footage from a neighbor showed two men, one believed to be Quintell Collins, running from the home and stashing an object under a trash bin shortly after the incident. Officers later discovered a 9mm handgun with an extended magazine under the bin.

Siblings’ Responsibility and Actions

The boy’s mother, Daquela Collins, had recently moved in with her mother, where her brother Quintell lived in the basement. On the day of the shooting, she left her son in her brother’s and mother’s care to visit her boyfriend. During the investigation, Daquela admitted to purchasing a 9mm handgun for safety, citing her brother’s involvement in altercations. Despite receiving a video from her brother showing him holding firearms while making a rap video with Da’quel in the background, Daquela did not return home immediately after seeing the reckless behavior.

Daquela also mentioned that her young daughter had asked for a gun, which she believed was influenced by her brother’s frequent display of firearms. The investigation found a box for the 9mm in a living room closet, along with an unopened gun lock. The firearm, allegedly used in the shooting, was found by authorities after Quintell had returned to the alley to look for it.

Quintell’s Attempted Escape and Legal Consequences

After the shooting, Quintell attempted to flee from police when they tried to pull him over for questioning. He sped away, reaching speeds of 80 mph in a 25 mph zone. During the chase, he even threw money out of his vehicle, seemingly taunting those watching. Police used stop sticks to end the pursuit, and Quintell was arrested. Both siblings are facing charges related to the death of Da’quel. Quintell faces second-degree reckless homicide and other firearm-related charges as a convicted felon. Daquela is charged with straw purchasing the firearm for her brother. They both remain in custody, with Daquela’s bond set at $10,000 and Quintell’s at $100,300. Their next court appearance is scheduled for April 15.

Community Grief and Support

A GoFundMe campaign set up in memory of Da’quel described him as a “bright, loving, and joyful” boy. The community has rallied around the family, offering condolences and support as they deal with the devastating loss of a young life.