A two-year-old boy died after being shot by his father on Sunday, May 28 in a St. Petersburg, Florida home.
Law enforcement officials from the St. Petersburg Police Department apprehended the father, Aaron Creary, and charged him with aggravated manslaughter of a child and violation of probation. The two-year-old, Armani Creary, was struck by a bullet during an altercation at his grandparents’ residence, where the family had gathered.
Creary engaged in a heated argument on Sunday, May 28, and impulsively produced a firearm that inadvertently discharged, striking his son. Frantically attempting to seek medical assistance, Creary set off for the hospital with his critically injured child. The distressed father lost control of the vehicle, colliding with another car in the parking lot of a closed business on 34th Street South at 15th Avenue South.
Medical professionals rushed Armani to the hospital, but despite their efforts, the young boy was declared deceased. Armani’s mother, Makayla Steele, voiced her support for Creary, describing the incident as an accident. The family firmly believes Creary had no intention of harming his son.
The incident has affected the family, and Aubrianna, in particular, bears the weight of its impact. Recognizing the close bond among all the nieces and nephews, arrangements for counseling sessions have already been initiated, Burton said.
Family and friends gathered at Childs Park in St. Pete on Monday evening for a balloon release and vigil, honoring the toddler’s memory.