By james art 
The man brought in by the 8-year-old Brookfield boy who was fatally shot at the man’s southern Wisconsin home remains jailed on reckless homicide and weapons charges.
Steven Merkel, 52, is accused of showing the boy his guns when the man went off hitting the boy. The boy was identified in court records as Michael Meagher.
Officers responded around 2:25 a.m. Monday at Merkel’s home on Lincoln Avenue in Geneva on the Lake, Wis., 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 a $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. Fundraising almost reached its goal of $22,000 as of Saturday night to pay for the funeral and other expenses.
“Michael is missed by everyone, including his family, friends and school,” the fundraiser said. “At this time, we all continue to grieve and appreciate your support.”
Michael attended Brook Park Elementary School in La Grange.
“Michael brought an incredible energy to life at Brook Park Elementary, where he was known for his incredible kindness and was loved by all,” The Brookfield-La Grange District 95 said in a statement.
Merkel is due back in court on Monday.