MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WFRV) – Two people are now facing felony charges in connection with the tragic death of a six-year-old child who was fatally shot just days before a birthday celebration.
Court records show that 21-year-old Quintell S. Collins and 26-year-old Daquela S. Collins are charged after the child gained access to a firearm and suffered a fatal gunshot injury on Tuesday, April 1, around 9:30 p.m. on the 2400 block of N. 51st Blvd.
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Daquela is charged with one count of neglecting a child – consequence is death – as party to a crime, and one count of straw purchasing a firearm. If convicted, she faces up to 35 years in prison and fines up to $125,000.
Quintell is facing multiple felony counts, including:
- Neglecting a Child – Consequence is Death – As Party to a Crime
- Second Degree Reckless Homicide, Habitual Criminality Repeater
- Two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Habitual Criminality Repeater
- Second Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety, Habitual Criminality Repeater
- Fleeing or Attempting to Elude an Officer, Habitual Criminality Repeater
- Obstructing an Officer, Habitual Criminality Repeater
If convicted on all counts, Quintell could face up to 116 years in prison and up to $295,000 in fines.
Milwaukee police said the child’s death was preventable.
“The child’s death could have been prevented if the individuals responsible to protect and guide this child secured their weapons,” said the department. “The Milwaukee Police Department reminds the public to keep firearms locked with a gunlock and secured in an area out of the reach of children.”
Officials also emphasized that purchasing a firearm for someone who cannot legally possess one is a serious criminal offense.
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Free gunlocks are available at local law enforcement agencies for those who need one.
Daquela is being held on a $10,000 cash bond and is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on April 15. Quintell’s bond was set at $100,000, and he is also expected in court the same day.
