The man whose gun killed a local fourth grader appeared in court Tuesday.
Todd Francis pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter, child endangerment and criminal storage of a firearm.
On June 4, 10-year-old Eric Klyaz died while playing with a gun in Francis’ garage in Miramar Ranch North. Klyaz died of a gunshot wound to the chest. Francis’ 9-year-old daughter was also there, but wasn’t hurt, according to officials.
Francis turned himself into police after charges were filed. In a previous statement, Francis said the gun wasn’t loaded and was hidden in a separate place from the ammunition. However, police said their investigation found the gun was loaded and easily accessible to children.
A readiness hearing is set for August 19, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 23. Francis faces up to seven years and eight months in prison if convicted.
