Two children were killed in gun accidents in their homes today.

In New Haven, Connecticut, an 8-year old was unintentionally shot in the head.  Police concluded that the death was accidental, but did not provide specific information about the circumstances of the accident, including whether the child shot himself.  They seized a loaded handgun , notified child protective services and made the following statement:  “”We mourn the tragic loss of such a young member of our community. We ask the community to join us in keeping the family in our thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable loss, pain, and grief.”

In Kansas City, Kansas, a 16-year old was shot by a friend.  Via Twitter, police announced: “the victim and the suspect were in the basement of a home when the suspect allegedly picked up a gun he thought was unloaded and unintentionally shot the victim.”  The names of the children involved were not released.

Sources:

Chris Rhatigan, “8-Year-Old Boy Shot, Dies In New Haven [Update],” Patch, New Haven, CT (August 7, 2020).

“Teen Fatally Shot in Kansas City, Kansas, Person of Interest in Custody, Police Say,” ksnt.com (August 7, 2020).