A Wisconsin teen, Javier Rodriguez, has been sentenced to nearly 10 years in prison for the unintentional shooting death of 10-year-old Isdennyeliz Ortiz. The tragic incident occurred in May 2024, when a bullet fired from Rodriguez’s gun struck and killed the young girl as she slept in her mother’s bed. Rodriguez, who was 19 at the time of the shooting, pleaded guilty to second-degree reckless homicide and will now face a lengthy prison sentence.
Details of the Shooting
On May 31, 2024, Isdennyeliz Ortiz was sleeping in her mother’s bed at a three-story house on Milwaukee’s south side when the fatal shot rang out. According to police reports, Rodriguez, who was living in the upper unit of the house, accidentally discharged a gun while playing with it. The bullet traveled through a couch cushion, passed through the ceiling and floor, and struck Isdennyeliz in the chest while she was in bed with her mother and baby brother.
The mother recalled hearing her daughter say “ouch,” followed by her asking if Isdennyeliz was okay. When she turned on the light, she found her daughter bleeding from the chest, with a fresh bullet hole in the ceiling. Isdennyeliz later died from the gunshot wound. Rodriguez, upon realizing what had happened, reportedly said, “I’m sorry. It’s my fault. Please forgive me,” to the girl’s mother.
Rodriguez’s Actions and Arrest
After the fatal shot, Rodriguez fled the scene before police arrived but was later arrested a few days later. Surveillance footage from the house helped identify him as the shooter. The video showed Rodriguez carrying a gun and wearing a rubber glove, appearing nervous moments before the shot was fired. Shortly after, he was seen running frantically through the rear area of the house.
Investigators also uncovered that a previous shooting had occurred in the house, about a month before the fatal incident. This earlier shot had also been fired from the upper floor, but no one was injured.
The Investigation and Firearms Found
Further investigation into Rodriguez’s residence revealed several firearms, including loaded 9mm pistols and high-capacity magazines. These weapons were discovered in a satchel in a closet. Police also reported finding ammunition for the weapons. The discovery of these firearms raised concerns about the presence of firearms in the home and the potential dangers they posed to others, especially given the earlier warning signs.
Rodriguez’s Sentence
Javier Rodriguez, who had initially faced a maximum sentence of 25 years, ultimately pleaded guilty to second-degree reckless homicide. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Thursday, with credit for 14 months already served in pretrial detention. After completing his sentence, Rodriguez will also serve eight years on supervised release.
The case of Isdennyeliz Ortiz’s death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by firearms in homes, especially when not handled properly. Rodriguez’s actions, while unintentional, have had devastating consequences for the Ortiz family. With a sentence of nearly a decade in prison, the legal system has held him accountable, though no punishment can undo the tragedy. As the community grapples with the loss of a young life, this incident underscores the importance of gun safety and responsibility.
