TOMBALL, TX – A 17-year-old Texas resident appeared in court this week charged with manslaughter following the tragic shooting of his 16-year-old brother in their hometown. The incident has sparked concerns and discussions about youth, guns, and responsibility.

Rhyder Tettleton has been accused of fatally shooting his younger brother in the abdomen at a family barn in Tomball, located roughly 40 miles from Houston, on Nov. 26. The shooting reportedly took place while their parents were at a nearby hospital for the mother’s back surgery.

Initially facing a murder charge, authorities later adjusted it to manslaughter, citing Tettleton’s reckless behavior rather than a deliberate intent to harm. Legal consequences could see him imprisoned for a period ranging from two to 20 years. He is currently detained in Harris County Jail with a bond set at $50,000.

The sequence of the night’s events came to light in court proceedings, where it was revealed that six teenage boys, including the Tettleton brothers, were present in the barn. The group had been consuming alcohol and handling a 9 mm handgun. According to court documents, Rhyder Tettleton took possession of the firearm, mistakenly believing it was unloaded. He purportedly aimed at his brother, believing he was just dry-firing.

Tragically, the gun discharged, striking the younger brother, who urgently requested help, reportedly saying, “I think I’m gonna die. Help me. Help me.” Efforts by the other teens to save him were in vain, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Further complicating the case, court documents revealed an alleged attempt by Tettleton to cover up the shooting. He reportedly urged the others present to claim that someone else had fired the gun and suggested hiding the weapon.

During police questioning, Tettleton, under the guidance of his attorney, eventually confessed to accidentally firing the gun after initially claiming memory loss of the events. He stressed that he never intended to cause harm to his brother.

As part of his release conditions, Tettleton has been barred from contacting the other teens who witnessed the incident. The case continues to underscore the importance of gun safety and responsible behavior among minors.