SAN ANTONIO, TX – 8-Year-Old Daniel Casares Tragically Killed in Accidental Shooting on City’s East Side
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on Friday afternoon, July 25, 2025, in San Antonio’s East Side, when 8-year-old Daniel Casares lost his life following an accidental firearm discharge. The devastating incident has sent shockwaves through the community, igniting renewed calls for increased gun safety and secure firearm storage in homes across Texas.
According to San Antonio Police, officers responded to an emergency call just after 2:30 p.m. in a residential neighborhood near East Houston Street and South New Braunfels Avenue, where a child was reported to have been shot. Upon arrival, first responders discovered young Daniel suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite rapid efforts to administer life-saving care at the scene and en route to a local hospital, Daniel was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the shooting was accidental and occurred inside the family home. Although the exact details are still under investigation, authorities believe the child may have gained access to a loaded, unsecured firearm. No other children were reported injured in the incident, and investigators are currently interviewing those who were present at the time.
The weapon involved in the shooting has been recovered, and the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office has been notified. Charges have not yet been filed, but authorities are reviewing the circumstances surrounding how the firearm was stored and whether negligence played a role.
“This is an unspeakable tragedy,” said San Antonio Police Chief William McManus. “An innocent young life has been lost due to the preventable danger of an unsecured firearm. Our thoughts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Casares family is said to be devastated by the loss. Daniel, described by neighbors and loved ones as a bright, playful, and kind-hearted little boy, attended a local elementary school and was known for his infectious smile and love for soccer. Friends and community members have begun leaving flowers, stuffed animals, and candles outside the family’s home in a growing memorial.
“He was such a sweet kid,” said one neighbor, holding back tears. “This shouldn’t have happened. A child should never be able to get their hands on a gun.”
The tragedy has sparked renewed discussion among city leaders and advocacy groups about the urgent need for firearm safety education and stricter laws regarding gun storage, particularly in homes with children. Texas law currently requires gun owners to store firearms in a manner that prevents access by minors, but enforcement is often reactive — tragically, after incidents like this one occur.
Local organizations, including Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, have called on lawmakers to pass stronger safe storage laws and fund community outreach programs that educate families on the dangers of unsecured firearms in the home.
“This is the price of inaction — the life of a child,” said one volunteer with the group. “No family should have to endure what the Casares family is going through.”
In the coming days, a memorial service will be held to honor Daniel’s life, and a GoFundMe page has been launched to assist the family with funeral expenses and other needs during this period of profound grief. The campaign has already seen an outpouring of support from across the city, with hundreds contributing in honor of the young boy whose life was cut far too short.
As the investigation continues, San Antonio Police urge gun owners to take all precautions necessary to keep weapons locked, unloaded, and out of reach of children. Free gun locks and safety information are available through local police precincts and nonprofit organizations.
Daniel’s tragic death serves as a painful reminder that accidental shootings are all too common — and often preventable. As the community comes together to grieve, it also comes together to ask hard questions about safety, responsibility, and how best to protect its most vulnerable.
Rest in peace, Daniel Casares.
Your light will never be forgotten.