Two more children died in gun accidents today, a seven-year old girl and a five-year old boy.

In Heber City, Utah, a man who was described as “incredibly intoxicated” fired a gun through an apartment wall. The round struck a seven-year old girl in the next apartment and killed her. Christopher O’Connell, age 34, was charged with manslaughter, carrying a dangerous weapon while under the influence, possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person, possession of marijuana and intoxication.  Two of his companions were also arrested.

The five-year old, a Sayre, Oklahoma boy, shot and killed himself with a loaded gun that he found in a parked car.  There is an ongoing investigation.  The police department announced that it will not release the child’s name out of respect for the family and the investigation.

Sources:

Lisi Merkley, “3 Arrested After Bullet Fired Through Apartment Wall Kills 7-year-old Girl,” KSL.com (July 10, 2021).

“5-year-old Child Dies after Accidentally Shooting Self in Sayre,” koco.com (July 9, 2021).