Mother And Boyfriend Facing Charges After Toddler Shot And Killed In Lancaster

LANCASTER, S.C. — Officials say the mother of the toddler killed in Lancaster and her boyfriend are facing charges in connection to his shooting death.

Toni Gladden, 26, has been charged with unlawful conduct towards a child and misprision of a felony.  Shazeem Hayes, 18, has been charged with unlawful conduct towards a child.

Investigator say at this point, there is nothing that suggests that the death of two-year-old Jacarion Antonio Gladden was an intentional act.  Investigators say they do feel that extreme criminal negligence was a major factor in the child’s death.

Officials say the mother, Toni, attempted to mislead investigators and hamper the investigation.

The shooting happened Monday on East Dunlap Street in Lancaster.  An autopsy revealed that Gladden died from a gunshot wound to the chest.  Officials say he was outside when the incident happened.