Miyah Harp dies after accidental shooting in Aiken County, mother Amalia Beltran faces meth charges

Aiken County is mourning the loss of 10-year-old Miyah Harp, who tragically died in an accidental shooting Monday night. This devastating event marks the second child shooting in the county within 24 hours, amplifying community concerns about gun safety and child welfare.

The fatal shooting occurred around 9:57 p.m. at a home on Wendy Lane in Windsor. Emergency responders pronounced Miyah dead at the scene shortly after 11 p.m. Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables confirmed the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the chest.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the shooting happened when a family member accidentally discharged a small-caliber rifle. Authorities noted that the individual was handling the firearm improperly, leading to the fatal incident. An autopsy for Miyah is scheduled in Newberry.

During the investigation, deputies discovered a large quantity of methamphetamine at the residence, which resulted in the arrest of Miyah’s mother, 32-year-old Amalia Nicole Beltran. She is facing drug trafficking charges for possessing between 28 and 100 grams of methamphetamine or cocaine base. Law enforcement clarified that Beltran was not handling the firearm at the time of the shooting.

The tragic loss of Miyah has sent shockwaves through the community, sparking calls for increased firearm safety awareness and stricter oversight of households involving children. The discovery of illegal drugs at the residence further complicates the case, underscoring the risks posed by unstable environments.

As investigations continue, authorities are urging families to prioritize safety measures, especially in homes with firearms and young children. The community mourns the heartbreaking loss of Miyah while grappling with the broader implications of the incident.