An Illinois man is charged with fatally shooting his sister-in-law Christmas morning, when he mistook her for an intruder.
Daniel Garcia, 52, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter following the death of Kellie Barnett, 50, WGN9 reported. Police responded around 7:20 a.m., where they found Barnett with a gunshot wound to her torso. She was pronounced dead at St. Alexius Medical Center.
Authorities allege Barnett, who was staying overnight with family, was shot in Garcia's bedroom after he woke up and believed she was an intruder. A Glock 9mm handgun was recovered at the scene, and records confirm Garcia holds a valid Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card and Concealed Carry License (CCL).
Prosecutors said Garcia admitted to the shooting during his 911 call, providing details about the firearm and its location. He told officers that he kept the gun in a holster on the side of his bed and had forgotten that they had a house guest for the holiday.
Garcia has been detained, and his next court appearance is set for January 17. If convicted, he faces three to 14 years in prison.
