WICHITA, KS — Michael Tejeda, 26, has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder after his 3-year-old daughter accidentally shot and killed her 21-month-old sister in February 2025.
Incident Details
The tragedy occurred at the family home on South Santa Fe Street in Wichita when Tejeda left a gun unattended while watching his daughters. His older daughter took the firearm while he was in another room, fatally shooting her younger sister, Myla, around 8:30 p.m.
Tejeda called 911 and also contacted the children’s mother, who was at a friend’s house getting a tattoo. Myla was pronounced dead at the hospital about an hour later.
Investigation and Child Interview
The 3-year-old was interviewed at the Child Advocacy Center. According to reports, she repeatedly apologized and expressed concern that she would go to jail. She mentioned receiving a minor injury earlier in the day but did not disclose anything about the gun.
Tejeda admitted to police that he had removed the gun from a holster on his waistband while watching TV and napping with his older daughter. He acknowledged that his daughter had previously shown curiosity about the firearm.
Charges and Plea
Tejeda pleaded guilty to:
- One count of second-degree murder
- Two counts of aggravated child endangerment
- One count of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon
He was initially facing a first-degree murder charge in addition to the other counts. Under the plea agreement, both prosecution and defense are requesting a mid-range sentence with consecutive terms.
Sentencing
Tejeda is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9, 2026.
