Community celebrates life of slain 5-year-old

NEWAYGO, Mich. (WOOD) — A celebration of life took place in Newaygo Saturday afternoon for 5-year-old Braxton Dykstra after he was shot and killed by his 6-year-old cousin on April 1.

The celebration of life started with a motorcade through town and ended with a luncheon at Newaygo High School. The entire community came together to show their support for the family.

Braxton was shot by his young cousin at his maternal grandparents’ home in Newaygo County’s Garfield Township. His cousin had picked up a relative’s 12-gauge shotgun.

The owner of the gun, identified by relatives as the grandfather on the mom’s side, previously told troopers he used the pump-action, 12-gauge Remington shotgun for protection and to shoot critters.

Since the incident, Braxton’s dad has been demanding justice and wondering why charges haven’t been filed. Family members say the shooting has pitted one side of the family against the other.

The office manager at the Newaygo County Prosecutor’s Office said the case was still under review to determine if charges should be filed.

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