Tragic Loss in Eldora! 13-year-old Keeley Baer Fatally Shot in “Gun Play” Incident

The fatal shooting of a 13-year-old in Eldora in April was inadvertent and the result of “gunplay,” Hardin County Attorney Darrell Meyer stated.

Meyer identified the victim as Keeley Baer from Eldora. Her friend, an unidentified 12-year-old suspect, remained in detention as of Monday morning.

The Eldora Police Department and the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office were summoned to the 800 block of 12th Street in Eldora about 5:30 p.m. on April 14 to investigate a shooting. Baer was discovered deceased at the scene.

The incident was inadvertent and the consequence of “gunplay,” according to Meyers. Investigators decided that the youngster found the pistol at his home, where the shooting occurred.

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Meyers said Baer was shot once.

Meyers declined to comment on whether the 12-year-old’s parents face charges as a result of the incident. He also declined to comment on the charge the pre-teen is facing. Iowa law only requires police enforcement to reveal juvenile suspects’ names and charges if the crime would be considered a forcible felony if committed by an adult.

When The Register contacted Baer’s father, he declined to comment.

Baer, who excelled academically at South Hardin Middle School and hoped to be a doctor, brought joy and humor to everyone she knew, according to her obituary.

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“Keeley’s vibrant personality captured the hearts of everyone around her,” according to the notice. “Her dazzling smile and joyful humor would brighten any room. Keeley was known as everyone’s best friend, and she had a special talent for making people feel appreciated and seen.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched for Baer’s family. The funds will be used to cover funeral expenses as well as family dinners.