A holiday gathering in Belton, Texas ended in tragedy when 17-year-old Josiah Alcozer was fatally wounded by a single gunshot to the head on the evening of December 30, 2025. The weapon discharged while being handled inside a residence around 8:13 p.m. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he remained in critical condition before dying on Saturday, January 3, 2026. The Belton Police Department confirmed his death and described the shooting as a tragic accident as their investigation continues.

Josiah, known as Blacky, was a former Belton High School student who worked in construction and was remembered by family for his humor, love of the outdoors, and passion for music. His parents are Simon and Alisa Alcozer; a GoFundMe was set up to assist with funeral expenses. No arrests or suspects have been announced.

Does anyone who was in Belton on December 30, 2025 have information about that evening or the people present at the gathering?