Two Young Girls are Shot and Wounded with Unsecured Guns

In Vernon Hills, Illinois, a loaded semi-automatic pistol that was left on a bed accidentally discharged striking a 2-year-old in her arm. She was airlifted to the hospital for specialized care for her serious, not life-threatening injury. It’s not clear how the gun fired, but it belonged to her aunt’s boyfriend, 19-year-old Joseph Hatchett. The 17-year-old aunt and Hatchett were watching the victim and her two brothers when the accident occurred. Hatchett has been charged with reckless conduct and endangering the life or health of a child, with additional charges pending. There is also an ongoing investigation by the Department of Children and Family Services.

And In Pine Hills, Florida, a 9-year-old girl found an unsecured gun and accidentally shot herself. She was taken to the hospital and is expected to recover. Few details have been reported.

Sources:

“Man Charged after 2-year-old Girl Seriously Injured in Accidental Shooting: Vernon Hills Police,” abc7chicago.com (June 3, 2023).

“Young Girl Accidentally Shot Herself after Finding Unlocked Gun, Police Say,” fox35orlando.com (June 2, 2023).