Tragic Unintentional Shooting Claims Life of U.S. Park Police Officer, Jesse Brown Hernández


In McLean, Virginia, a tragic incident unfolded when off-duty U.S. Park Police officers were socializing at an apartment. During the late hours of a Sunday, Alexander Roy, a 25-year-old resident of McLean, unintentionally discharged a firearm, leading to the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Jesse Brown Hernández. 

The mishap occurred as Roy was attempting to simulate firing an unloaded gun, commonly known as "dry firing." 

According to the Fairfax County Police Department, the gunshot struck Hernández in the upper body, resulting in his tragic demise. U.S. Park Police acknowledged the incident but refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation, emphasizing their focus on supporting the affected employees' families, friends, and coworkers.

Established during President George Washington's era in 1791 and operating under the National Park Service, the U.S. Park Police play a crucial role in investigating and apprehending individuals suspected of offenses against the United States. They also provide security for numerous significant events held within national parks.

Following a 911 call regarding the unintentional shooting at 12:20 a.m. on Sunday, officers from the McLean Police District arrived at the scene. Unfortunately, Hernández was discovered lifeless within the apartment, where he had been socializing with two other off-duty U.S. Park Police officers. A bystander who was acquainted with the officers was also present.

In response to the tragic event, Alexander Roy has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and is currently detained at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center without the option of posting bond. The question of legal representation for Roy remains unanswered.

This year has witnessed a total of 1,347 verified reports of unintentional shooting incidents across the United States, as documented by The Gun Violence Archive.

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