A heartbreaking incident in Omaha, Nebraska, has left a community reeling. Yolonda Barfield, a 33-year-old mother, is facing charges after her 6-year-old daughter, Alonni, accidentally shot herself with an unsecured firearm at their home last month. Yolonda had purchased the gun because she was terrified of her violent ex-boyfriend, but this tragic decision has turned her life upside down.
On Sunday, December 15, 2024, Omaha police rushed to a home on Redick Avenue after receiving reports of a shooting around 4 p.m. When they arrived, they found little Alonni suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics from the Omaha Fire Department quickly transported her to the Nebraska Medical Center, but despite their best efforts, Alonni didn’t survive.
The investigation revealed that Yolonda had bought the gun to protect herself and her children from her ex-boyfriend, who had a history of domestic violence. Initially, she kept the firearm hidden in a closet. However, fearing a sudden break-in, she later moved it under her mattress for quicker access. Tragically, this decision led to the unthinkable.
On the day of the incident, three of Alonni’s siblings, aged 8, 13, and 15, were home. It was her 15-year-old brother who discovered her on the bedroom floor and immediately called 911. The gun, which had discharged, was found on the bed nearby. According to authorities, the children knew about the gun’s location and that it was always loaded with a bullet in the chamber.
Yolonda’s lawyer explained in court that she had repeatedly sought help from law enforcement, reporting escalating threats from her ex-boyfriend, but no action was taken. Feeling desperate, she kept the gun close to protect herself and her family. “She was scared that if he broke into her house, she wouldn’t have time to reach it,” the attorney said.
Despite the explanation, the Douglas County Attorney argued for a high bond, saying Yolonda’s negligence resulted in her daughter’s death. She was charged with child abuse by neglect and child abuse by intent. The judge ultimately set Yolonda’s bond at $25,000, requiring her to pay 10% to be released. As of Thursday morning, she remained in the Douglas County Jail, awaiting her next court appearance in February.
This tragedy has sparked conversations about gun safety and the challenges faced by victims of domestic violence. It’s a painful reminder of how quickly a situation meant to ensure safety can spiral into devastation.
