A Cypress family is mourning the tragic loss of 3-year-old Rudy Ratliff, who died in what police believe was an accidental shooting during a visit to New Orleans.

Leshawn Ratliff, Rudy’s mother, says her son was fatally shot at a family friend’s home. New Orleans police allege Rudy found a gun and accidentally shot himself, but Leshawn disputes this, claiming the gun fell from the friend’s hip and discharged.

The friend, Tatisha Refuge, has been charged with negligent homicide, and more charges are expected.

Leshawn remembers Rudy as a “beautiful soul” and is determined to seek accountability for his death. The family remains in New Orleans for Rudy’s funeral, and a GoFundMe has been set up to support them.