Texas teen fatally shoots himself while taking selfie

A 19-year-old Texas man who was posing with a gun for a social media selfie photo accidentally shot himself and died from the wounds, Houston police said on Wednesday.

The gun blast hit Deleon Alonso Smith in the throat killing him instantly.

"A witness told police he was taking a selfie with a gun and the gun accidentally discharged," Houston police spokeswoman Jodi Silva said.

Shocked family members gather following Mr Smith's death. Source: Supplied
Shocked family members gather following Mr Smith's death. Source: Supplied

The tragedy occurred just one day before Mr Smith was due to begin community college.

"It's the worst feeling in my life," Eric Douglas, the victim's uncle told KPRC.

"It's a numb feeling. It's still unbelievable," Smith's grandmother Alma Douglas told the station. "Yesterday was my birthday and he came to wish me happy birthday, and then to hear this kind of news."

Outside the unit where the shooting unfolded. Source: Supplied
Outside the unit where the shooting unfolded. Source: Supplied

Mr Smith's sister said her brother had just begun to get his life back on track.

"That's what happens and then the devil try to mess with you," she told

Investigator's told KPRC that Smith's cousin was in another room at the time the gun went off.

In a tragic twist, Mr Smith's sister said her brother had only just begun to get his life back on track. Source: Supplied
In a tragic twist, Mr Smith's sister said her brother had only just begun to get his life back on track. Source: Supplied

The cousin told police they found the gun earlier in the day.

Investigations are continuing.