Stepdad accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Brookfield boy in southern Wisconsin home

The stepdad of an 8-year-old Brookfield boy who was fatally shot inside the man’s home in southern Wisconsin remains jailed on reckless homicide and gun charges.

Steven Merkel, 52, is accused of showing the boy his guns when one went off, striking the boy. The boy was identified in court records as Michael Meagher..

Officers responded about 2:25 a.m. Monday to Merkel's home on Lincoln Avenue in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and found the boy with a gunshot wound. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Merkel was taken into custody and charged with felony reckless homicide and unlawful use of a dangerous weapon. He remains jailed on $250,000 bond.

Michael was described as a “bright funny boy” who had two older sisters and loved playing with friends, according to a fundraiser started by a family friend. The fundraiser had nearly reached its goal of $22,000 as of Saturday night to pay for his funeral and other expenses.

“Everyone is missing Michael, including his family, friends and school,” the fundraiser states. “We all continue to grieve at this time and appreciate your support.”

Michael attended Brook Park Elementary School in La Grange.

“Michael brought amazing energy to life at Brook Park Elementary, where he was known for his incredible kindness and was beloved by all,” the Brookfield-La Grange School District 95 said in a statement.

Merkel is due back in court Monday.