In Bradley County, Tennessee, a two-year old child found a loaded gun at home, shot themself in the chest, and was later pronounced dead at the local hospital.  “A preliminary investigation discovered that the firearm had been left unsecured and the child was able to have access to the weapon.” The child’s father, Matthew Jenkins, was charged with negligent homicide.

And in Canton, Ohio, a one-year old was shot and killed by a three-year old sibling. “Next door to the home, a family friend, a 15 year old girl, heard the commotion and came outside to find the young mother frantic for help, wanting someone to pick up her baby, because she was too frightened and traumatized to do so herself.”  There is no word yet on whether anyone will be charged for leaving a loaded gun where the children could find it.

Sources:

“Accidental Shooting Claims Life of Two-year-old Child,” wbir.com (October 25, 2021).

 Chris Anderson, Brian Duffy “1-year-old Fatally Shot by Toddler Who Found Unsecured Gun, Canton Police Say,”  Fox 19 Now (October 26, 2021).