18-Year-Old Dies in Accidental Shooting

Alexander Xavier Shaw, 18, was showing of a gun to friends Wednesday night. He produced his 38 caliber revolver and explained that he kept one round out of the firing chamber to prevent an accidental discharge.

According to witnesses, Shaw attempted to demonstrate the gun was safe by
placing it to his head and pulling the trigger.

The gun fired, and he died.

St. Petersburg Police said when they arrived to 733 71st Ave. N, Shaw was found lying on the back patio with a gunshot wound to the head. 

Police and paramedics were immediately called and efforts at CPR were attempted. After being examined by paramedics, Shaw was pronounced dead at the scene.

After interviews with witnesses, police said it was determined that Shaw and several of his friends had been sitting on the back patio talking. Shaw's uncle and grandparents were also present in the home at the time as well.

At this time the incident is still under investigation by homicide detectives and the Medical Examiner's Office.

According to police, Alexander Shaw is the son of Richard M. Shaw who was murdered during a home invasion robbery at 7014 Orpine Drive North on June 18, 2012. He was in the home at the time and witness to his father's murder, police said.