Mesa, Arizona: 16-Year-Old Shot in the Neck by Mother During Family Dispute
MESA, AZ — A heartbreaking and chaotic domestic situation in Mesa has left a 16-year-old boy recovering from a gunshot wound to the neck and his mother behind bars. The shooting occurred Sunday night during what authorities describe as a heated confrontation involving the teen, his younger brother, and their mother, 42-year-old Shamonica Cannon.
According to Mesa Police, Cannon went to the apartment of her estranged husband, bringing along her 15-year-old son. At some point during the visit, the situation escalated when the younger boy saw his mother holding a firearm. Fearing what might happen, he attempted to wrestle the weapon away from her.
During the struggle, the 16-year-old older brother came into the room to help, and in the chaos, the gun discharged — striking him in the neck.
Immediate Response Saves a Life
Family members acted quickly, trying to assist the teen before rushing him to a nearby hospital by car. Thanks to their swift response, the teen survived the shooting and is currently reported to be conscious and alert while receiving medical care.
Police responded to the scene and launched an investigation. During questioning, Cannon acknowledged that the gun was hers and insisted the shooting was unintentional — a tragic accident that unfolded during the struggle between her and her sons.
Arrest and Charges
Despite claiming it was accidental, Cannon was taken into custody and is now facing multiple felony charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and child endangerment. Her bail has been set at $150,000, and the firearm has been confiscated by authorities.
Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and determine whether further charges may be filed. The full circumstances of why Cannon went to her estranged husband’s apartment remain under investigation.
Community Shock and Concern
The incident has deeply shaken the Mesa community, where many are struggling to understand how a domestic dispute could turn so violent — and leave a child so critically wounded.
“This is a deeply tragic reminder of how quickly a situation can spiral out of control when firearms are involved,” said one community advocate. “No child should ever have to be in a position where they’re fighting to protect themselves from a parent.”
Looking Ahead
As the teen begins his recovery and the family navigates the emotional and legal aftermath, child protective services have stepped in to assess the safety and well-being of both boys. Temporary arrangements are likely being made as the case moves forward.
This heartbreaking event has also sparked renewed calls for families facing domestic conflict to seek help before it escalates into violence.
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous or unstable domestic situation, support is available.
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for confidential help.
This tragic shooting leaves a family torn apart, a young boy fighting to heal, and a community reminded of the urgent need for intervention, support, and responsible handling of conflict — especially when children are involved.
