In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a Missouri grandfather has allegedly admitted to shooting and fatally injuring his 16-year-old grandson. The incident transpired on a Sunday evening in a Clinton, Missouri residence.
Thomas Ribby, 70, reportedly fired the fatal shot at Royce Hayes Osburn, as per information obtained by FOX 4. Initial reports indicate that Ribby informed investigators he was unaware the firearm was loaded. However, family members are puzzled as to why the gun was directed at his grandson.
While there had been prior conflicts between the grandfather and teenager, those close to the family and witnesses never anticipated such a tragic outcome.
According to charging documents, Ribby had earlier handed a Glock to Osburn for recreational use. A witness recounted observing the victim engaging with the firearm, pretending to clear rooms.
Following the alleged shooting, Osburn sought refuge with his mother, Melissa Ribby. He entered her bedroom, clutching his chest, and uttered the devastating words, "papa shot me."
Heartbroken, Melissa Ribby lamented, "My baby died in my arms."
Upon police arrival, Thomas Ribby locked himself in his apartment, adding to the distressing scene.
"I don’t even want to see him. He’s not my dad. He’s not my dad at all. I don’t ever want to talk to him again. And I don’t care if he burns in hell. I don’t care," expressed Melissa Ribby. "He should have never done that to a child. My child deserved more than that. If he wanted to kill somebody, turn around and do it to yourself. I’m sorry. That’s the way I feel."
The Osburn family revealed that it had been the teenager's cherished dream to one day become a police officer.
Currently, the grandfather is held at the Henry County Detention Center under a $100,000 cash-only bond. He faces charges of 1st-degree murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and resisting arrest. The community is left grappling with the profound tragedy that has befallen this family.