A’Kai Stilo of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, age 3, found a gun in his home and shot himself to death. A 28-year old woman has been arrested in connection with the incident. Milwaukee police said there have been 15 fatal shooting victims ages 18 and younger this year.

“I am disturbed by all gun deaths in Milwaukee, but when the victim is a 3-year-old, I am horrified. There are too many guns in the hands of people who should not have them. All weapons must be locked and secured in a home,” Milwaukee’s Mayor tweeted. “I’m for people having guns to protect themselves, but you have to be responsible. For a 3-year-old to get any access to a firearm is just super irresponsible,” said a neighbor.

In Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, police are investigating an incident in which a teenager, who was playing with a family member’s gun with some friends, accidentally shot and killed himself. 

Police are asking families to “educate your children.” Why not ask parents to safely store their guns so children don’t have access to them?

Sources:

“3-year-old Boy Accidentally Shoots Himself, Police Say,” wisn.com (July 1, 2022).

Associated Press, “Boy, 3, Dies in Accidental Shooting at Milwaukee Home,” U.S. New and World Report (July 2, 2022).

Dave Kinchen, “Teen Shot Dead in Upper Darby, Police Believe Kids Playing With Family Gun,” Fox 29 (July 2, 2022).