Madison Heights mother, stepfather sentenced to probation in 9-year-old accidental shooting

MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. – Two people from Madison Heights were sentenced after a 9-year-old boy shot himself with an unsecured gun.

Jacob Gean, 28, and Jessie Gean, 29, were charged with firearms-safe storage violation-minor present and inflicted serious impairment of a body function upon self or another.

Police said the accidental shooting happened on August 2024 at a home on Palmer Street, near Diesing Drive, just south of 12 Mile Road.

According to authorities, Jessie’s 9-year-old son shot himself in the hand with Jacob’s gun that was left in a jacket pocket in the home.

“I’m hopeful the Safe Storage Law and cases like this will encourage people to take a few minutes and confirm their guns are stored safely,” said Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “Gun violence is a public health crisis and a leading cause of death among children. It only takes 10 seconds to install a cable lock or a few minutes to properly secure a firearm. Those few moments could prevent an accidental injury or death.”

Both were sentenced to two years of probation with in addition to time served for three days in Oakland County Jail. McDonald said they are required to maintain or seek employment during their probation and cannot engage in assaultive behavior or have any guns or deadly weapons. They are also required to follow all conditions imposed by the Family Court.