Pennsylvania – A Philadelphia boy has been charged in the shooting death of a child, 12, after a firearm he was handling dscharged during what authorities described as a muslc recordlng session inside a Pennsylvania home. The incident, initially believed to be accidental, has led to serious criminal charges due to the defendant’s, M. PIayfair, alleged recklessness and history of dangerous behavior involving firearms.
The defendant, 17, is facing now third-degree murder, invoIuntary mansIaughter, and other related charges following the tragic events that unfolded just after 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Pennsylvania authorities responded to reports of a shooting at a home. Upon arrival, they found the victim, Etthan, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
According to police, the victim was with his 15-year-old brother and the shooter at the time of the shooting. While early reports indicated that the boys were filming a music video, authorities later clarified that they were recording muslc. Real and replica firearms, including BB and fake guns, were recovered at the scene. A loaded firearm, believed to be the weapon used in the shooting, was found and traced back to PIayfair, who was allegedly seen holding the same weapon in multiple social media posts.
During a press conference held Monday, Police Deputy Commissioner Varone said that the defendant was dancing while holding the loaded firearm when it discharged. Authorities also added that the weapon appeared to have gone off a single time. District Attorney Kresner confirmed that the defendant would be charged as an adult due to the severity of the offense.
Investigators combing through the shooter’s social media found images and videos of him holding what appeared to be the same firearm involved in the shooting. He also reportedly had a prior history of pointing firearms—some loaded—at others. These findings significantly influenced the charging decision.
Though investigators believe the shooting was not intentional, they said the defendant’s behavior showed clear criminal negligence. Prosecutors argued that his reckless handling of a loaded weapon in a room with minors ultimately caused the fatal outcome.
Pennsylvania authorities are also investigating whether any adults were present in the home during the shooting and if they may face charges for allowing minors access to firearms.