Tragic Loss in Kannapolis: The Kannapolis community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of seven-year-old Willow Rose, who was fatally shot in an accidental incident involving an unsecured firearm. The tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for responsible gun storage in homes with children.
Incident Overview: Fatal Shooting in Kannapolis
On the morning of January 23, 2025, at around 7:30 a.m., officers from the Kannapolis Police Department responded to a call at a residence in the 400 block of Cabarrus Arms Drive. Upon arrival, they found that Willow Rose had been accidentally shot by her sibling after an unsecured firearm was found accessible in the home. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, the young girl was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving her family and community devastated.
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Investigation and Charges
Following a thorough investigation, authorities determined that the firearm involved in the incident had been left unsecured by 33-year-old Timothy Wayne Burris, the boyfriend of Willow Rose’s mother. Police concluded that the gun was accessible to the children, leading to the accidental discharge.
After consulting with the Cabarrus County District Attorney’s Office, Burris was arrested and charged with:
- Felony child abuse inflicting serious injury
- Storing a firearm in a manner accessible to a minor
- Contributing to the delinquency of a minor
Burris was taken into custody and issued a $25,000 bond. His first court appearance was scheduled for January 24.
Community Impact and Gun Safety Awareness
The tragic death of Willow Rose has sent shockwaves through the Kannapolis community, emphasizing the grave consequences of unsecured firearms in homes. Authorities have issued a strong reminder to gun owners about the importance of responsible storage. Proper safety measures, such as using trigger locks and locked storage containers, are essential to preventing such tragedies.
The incident has reignited calls for better gun safety education and stronger regulations to prevent children from accessing firearms. Advocates are urging stricter measures to ensure that firearms are safely stored, especially in homes with minors.
The Need for Change and Vigilance
This devastating loss serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with improper gun storage. Willow Rose’s untimely death has underscored the importance of vigilance and responsibility in safeguarding children from preventable accidents.
In the wake of this tragedy, law enforcement and local organizations are offering resources and educational materials to assist gun owners in implementing safe storage practices. The community continues to rally around Willow Rose’s family, offering support and condolences during this incredibly difficult time.
Conclusion: A Community in Mourning
Willow Rose’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the critical responsibility that comes with firearm ownership. As the investigation continues, the Kannapolis community remains united in their grief, sending thoughts and prayers to the family. This tragedy has sparked an urgent conversation about the need for stronger gun safety practices to protect the most vulnerable among us.
May Willow Rose’s memory inspire change, and may her family find strength in the love and support of their community during this unimaginable loss.