Two Toddlers are Shot by Siblings with Guns Found in Vehicles

The 3-year-old son of a pastor in Morganton, North Carolina, found his father’s gun in the side door of the family van and shot his 2-year-old brother in the head. The 2-year-old, Daniel Vines, is recovering in stable condition after surgery. The family was at church attending late Sunday services, and according to their father, the gun was in a holster with the safety on. There is an ongoing investigation.

In Welcome, Minnesota, a 4-year-old riding in the back seat of a vehicle found a loaded gun and unintentionally shot their 2-year-old sibling. The 2-year-old was airlifted to the hospital, though their condition was not reported. According to the chief deputy, a parent was with the children in the vehicle but would not say if the gun belonged to them. Criminal charges in the case are still being considered.

Sources:

Jack Hale, Gary Brode, “2-year-old Shot at Church in Morganton,” wccbcharlotte.com (October 16, 2023).

Dana Thiede, “Sheriff: 4-year-old Shoots 2-year-old Sibling After Finding Handgun in Car,” kare11.com (October 17, 2023).