LAKELAND, FL (January 8, 2025) – On Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 3:44 p.m. Lakeland PD officers responded to report of a 6-year-old who sustained a gunshot wound to the head. The incident occurred in a vehicle which was parked at a residence in the 200 block of West Crawford Street. Prior to officers arriving, the child was transported via personal vehicle to Lakeland Regional Health (LRH).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Based on evidence thus far, detectives learned the Victim, six-year-old Major Smith, had been in the care of his father, Myron Smith Sr. and also in the company of his adult brother, Myron Smith Jr. just before the incident occurred. All three had just returned from the store and Myron Jr. remained in his rental vehicle (grey Nissan Altima) for a short time while Myron Sr. and Major got out and were sitting on the porch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Myron Jr. got out of his vehicle, closed the door and went into the residence briefly. Myron Sr. was still outside but making a phone call when Major was able to get into the Nissan and access the Glock 19X which was left between the driver’s seat and the center console.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hearing the gunshot, Myron Sr. responded to find Major with an injury to his head and the firearm on the driver’s seat. Major was quickly driven to LRH in the rental vehicle by Myron Jr. for treatment. Myron Jr. stayed at LRH with Major whose injuries were severe and critical. On January 7, 2025, in the afternoon hours, Major Smith succumbed to his injuries at LRH.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No charges have been filed at this time; however, the case is still open and active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Neal Robertson at neal.robertson@lakelandgov.net<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n