Memorial Day weekend in Chicago turned tragic when a 2-year-old boy lost his life after accidentally shooting himself.
Jamonte Shaw reportedly found a loaded firearm inside a home on the city’s far south side, and despite emergency responders rushing him to the hospital, he died from his injuries. Johnny R. Hughes, the boyfriend of Jamonte’s mother, now faces multiple charges in connection with the toddler’s death.
Shooting Details
The incident happened in the early afternoon on May 24, 2026. Police responded to a call around 12:40 p.m. in the 900 block of East 104th Street in the Pullman neighborhood, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. When officers arrived, Jamonte was in critical condition and was taken to Comer Children’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:31 p.m.
Although the autopsy report is pending, preliminary reports suggest the toddler had a single gunshot wound to the head.
How the Gun Was Found
According to police, Hughes told officers where the gun was located. While being questioned alongside Jamonte’s mother, Jada Shaw, Hughes led police to a back bedroom where they recovered a 9mm semi-automatic Taurus G3 with a laser attachment. The gun was on the top shelf of a closet, hidden between layers of clothing.
WGN reported that Hughes had been sleeping when the incident occurred. Shaw reportedly heard the gunshot and found Jamonte in the living room. Hughes admitted he had been drinking the night before and had stored the gun in the closet, assuming Jamonte would not access it.
Charges and Legal Action
Hughes, a convicted felon, now faces multiple charges, including:
- Child endangerment
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Unlawful use of a weapon
Because Hughes should not have legally possessed a firearm, authorities say this tragedy could have been prevented.
Family Reaction
Jada Shaw has created a GoFundMe to cover Jamonte’s final expenses and shared a heartfelt message about her son:
“Jamonte was a bright light in my life, full of energy and love. His laughter and spirit brought so much joy to everyone around him. Losing him so unexpectedly has been overwhelming, and I am doing my best to cope with the emotional and financial challenges that have come with his passing.”
