Lansing, Michigan – A 22-year-old Lansing man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say a firearm he allegedly stored improperly was accessed by a 4-year-old girl, resulting in her fatal shooting. The incident has renewed concerns about gun safety, especially in homes with children.
Incident Overview
Police say the shooting occurred on January 21 at a residence on Sadie Court in Lansing. Officers responding to reports of a gunshot found the child suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect, Maliki Pendergrass, is accused of illegally possessing and improperly storing the firearm that the child accessed inside the home.
Timeline of Events
According to investigators, officers from the Lansing Police Department were dispatched to the home on Sadie Court after receiving a report of a shooting involving a child.
When officers arrived, they discovered the 4-year-old girl with a gunshot wound. Emergency responders from the Lansing Fire Department immediately attempted life-saving measures.
Despite those efforts, authorities confirmed the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details From Police and Prosecutors
Investigators determined that the child obtained the firearm from inside the residence, where it was allegedly stored improperly. Police also revealed that Pendergrass was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm at the time of the incident.
Court records show that Pendergrass was on parole for armed robbery and carrying a concealed weapon. He also has a prior felony conviction, making any possession of a firearm or ammunition illegal under Michigan law.
In a statement following the arraignment, prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the case.
“This was a clear violation of the law, and the defendant will be prosecuted to the fullest extent,” authorities said.
Charges Filed
Pendergrass has been charged as a habitual third offender, significantly increasing potential penalties if convicted. The charges include:
- Six felony counts related to the prohibited possession of a firearm and ammunition
- Violations tied to his parole status
- Allegations connected to unsafe storage of a firearm
He was formally arraigned on January 23, and a judge set his bond at $1 million.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
Following his arraignment, Pendergrass was ordered to remain in custody unless bond conditions are met. He is scheduled to appear in court again on February 6, when a judge will review the case and determine how proceedings will move forward.
If convicted on all counts, Pendergrass could face significant prison time, particularly due to his habitual offender status.
Gun Safety and Child Access Risks
Law enforcement officials continue to stress that unsecured firearms in homes pose serious risks, especially to young children. Studies consistently show that children are more likely to find and handle unsecured guns than many adults expect, often with tragic consequences.
Authorities urge gun owners to:
- Store firearms locked and unloaded
- Keep ammunition separately secured
- Use gun safes or lock devices
- Ensure individuals prohibited by law do not have access to weapons
Officials note that even brief lapses in storage practices can lead to irreversible outcomes.
Community Impact
The death of the young child has deeply affected the Lansing community, with neighbors and local leaders expressing grief and frustration over preventable gun violence. Law enforcement leaders say cases like this highlight the importance of responsible gun ownership and strict adherence to firearm laws.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting on Sadie Court has left a community mourning the loss of a young life while underscoring the legal and moral responsibilities tied to firearm possession. As the case against Maliki Pendergrass proceeds through the courts, authorities say accountability and prevention remain central priorities.
If you have thoughts on firearm safety or experiences related to preventing gun access by children, share your experiences in the comments below.
