Police Officer’s 4-year-old Son Shoots Himself with Father’s Duty Weapon

The Columbia, South Carolina police department placed officer James Peter Tidot on investigatory suspension after an incident in which Tidot’s 4-year-old son shot himself in the head at a family member’s home in North Miami Beach, Florida. The investigation involves an “improperly secured and loaded duty weapon.”  Tidot was also charged in Florida with child neglect and culpable negligence.  The boy is hospitalized but is expected to recover.

The Columbia Police Chief said, “[w]e are praying for the speedy recovery of the child and everyone impacted by the incredibly unfortunate incident. Let this serve as a reminder about the importance of gun safety and proper gun storage.” Other details of the incident are unclear.

Source:

Jessica Holly, Kevin Boulandier, “South Carolina Police Officer Charged with Child Neglect After 4-year-old Son Shoots Self with Gun in North Miami Beach,” wsvn.news (April 5, 2024).