If a child discharges a firearm that has been made accessible to them, causing death or serious bodily injury to themselves, what is the penalty?

The situation described involves a child accessing a firearm and causing death or serious bodily injury to themselves, which raises serious legal concerns under Texas law. The correct answer, indicating a Class A misdemeanor, aligns with the responsibilities placed on adults regarding firearm access and safety, particularly concerning minors.

Under Texas Penal Code, adults can be held liable for the negligent storage of firearms, particularly if it leads to a minor accessing the weapon and causing injury. A Class A misdemeanor reflects the seriousness of the offense, as it not only involves potential recklessness on the part of the adult in securing the firearm but also the profound consequences of a child's actions resulting in significant harm.

The other options do not adequately reflect the gravity of the situation. A Class C misdemeanor, for instance, involves less severe infractions and would not encompass the life-altering outcomes associated with a firearm discharge that causes death or serious injury. Similarly, a 3rd degree felony and a State Jail felony would indicate more severe acts or intentions that do not apply in this scenario, where the focus is on the accessibility of the firearm rather than actions taken by the adult or child that would warrant such severe classifications. Thus, a Class A misdemeanor appropriately categorizes the offense in relation to the negligent circumstances surrounding firearm