Florida DCF Investigating Death of Toddler Fatally Shot by 4-Year-Old Cousin

Florida Toddler's Shooting Death Family Services Investigating After 4-Year-old Cousin Fires Fatal Shot Published September 22, 2026 4:21 PM PDT The Florida Department of Children and Families is investigating the death of 2-year-old Brayden Tennyson, who was fatally shot by his 4-year-old cousin, TMZ has learned. A DCF spokesperson tells TMZ … "The Florida Department of Children and Families investigates all child deaths related to allegations of abuse, neglect, or abandonment in close coordination with law enforcement." As TMZ previously reported, Brayden was shot inside a rental home in Kissimmee after investigators said his 4-year-old cousin got ahold of an unsecured handgun. The children were reportedly alone in a car when the older boy grabbed the weapon, which Osceola County Sheriff Chris Blackmon said was "literally in the open." Adults standing outside the vehicle heard the gunshot. Brayden was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead just days before his third birthday. His family had traveled from Georgia for a vacation. Sheriff Blackmon previously said criminal charges could be filed against members of the family after the investigation is complete. Related articles Allegations Crime Exclusive News Police