Tallahassee Father Charged with Culpable Negligence After Toddler’s Fatal Shooting
A Tallahassee man is facing criminal charges after his four-year-old son died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound last November. Kadeem Thomas, 33, was arrested and charged with culpable negligence following an investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The tragedy occurred on the morning of November 9 at a residence located on Augustus Oak Court. According to arrest documents from WCTV, deputies responded to reports of a shooting and discovered a child, identified as Kane Thomas, suffering from a gunshot wound. The child was pronounced dead at the scene.
While initial reports from the Leon County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as three years old, official arrest papers later clarified that Kane Thomas was four years old.
The Investigation and Father’s Statement
The investigation into the death involved a review of 911 calls and interviews with family members. Arrest documents reveal that Kadeem Thomas told emergency dispatchers and his cousin that the toddler had shot himself.
During a subsequent statement provided to the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Thomas detailed the events leading up to the shooting:
- The Evening Prior: Thomas stated he had friends over the night before the incident and put Kane to bed around 11:45 p.m.
- The Lead-up: After his guests departed, Thomas reported that he took a shower, prepared food, and “smoked a roach” before falling asleep on the couch.
- Weapon Placement: Thomas admitted he had placed a gun on the sofa next to him, noting that the weapon had previously been tucked into the couch.
- The Discovery: Thomas told law enforcement he woke up to a “pop sound” and felt his son next to him on the sofa.
In his statements to investigators, Thomas acknowledged that leaving the firearm accessible in that manner was “not safe.”
Legal Proceedings
Following the investigation, Kadeem Thomas was arrested on Monday and booked into the Leon County Jail. He is currently charged with culpable negligence in connection with the death of his son.
- Defendant: Kadeem Thomas, 33.
- Victim: Kane Thomas, 4 years old.
- Charge: Culpable Negligence.
- Incident Date: November 9.
- Location: Augustus Oak Court, Tallahassee, Fla.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is culpable negligence?
Culpable negligence generally refers to a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would exercise, showing a reckless disregard for the safety of others.
Where did the shooting capture place?
The incident occurred at a home on Augustus Oak Court in Tallahassee, Florida.
When was the arrest made?
Kadeem Thomas was arrested on Monday, April 6, 2026, several months after the November incident occurred.
This case highlights the critical importance of secure firearm storage to prevent accidental deaths among children. Further updates on the legal proceedings against Kadeem Thomas will be provided as they become available through official court records.
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