Malachi Copeland, an Evansville, Indiana first grader, apparently found a loaded gun in his home and shot himself in the head. Police are investigating his death, and no one has been charged at this time.

Malachi’s school issued a statement that included the following:

The Joshua Academy school community is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our bright one, Malachi Copeland. Malachi was a quiet, yet very smart and energetic young man. He entered Joshua Academy in kindergarten where he consistently demonstrated high academic scores. He will be truly missed.

We talked with all of our students about this tragedy during our school wide morning announcements. Our teachers were also provided with resources to help them discuss gun safety with our community. Students were told that if they see a gun to – “STOP, Don’t Touch, Run Away, & Tell an Adult”. For parents that choose to keep a gun at home, we ask that you contact the main office to receive a free gun lock that will be provided by Joshua Academy.

Source:

Jill Lyman, “School of 6-year-old Evansville Boy Releases Statement After his Death,” 14 News (September 5, 2022).

Adam Knight, Claire Dugan, “Coroner Identifies 6-year-old Evansville Boy Who Died From Gunshot Wound,” wevv.com (September 6, 2022).