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‘Gun play’ led Iowa 12-year-old to fatally shoot 13-year-old friend, authorities say; victim identified

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May 21st, 2024 by Ric Hanson

The death of a 13-year-old Eldora girl was the unintentional result of “gun play,” according to the Hardin County Attorney’s Office. Hardin County Attorney Darrell Meyer also confirmed the girl’s identity, Keeley Baer, of Eldora.

Baer was fatally shot by a 12-year-old boy on April 14. Meyer confirms the accused juvenile was taken into custody and the matter is being handled in juvenile court. Meyer says the boy was able to obtain a pistol that was in the suspect’s home at the time and that Baer was shot once. According to the county attorney, the investigation showed the shooting was unintentional and that the shooter and the victim were friends.

Meyer would not confirm whether the 12-year-old boy’s parents are facing any charges as a result of the boy having access to the gun.