East Point, GA — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in East Point, Georgia, on Wednesday, July 2, when a 3-year-old boy accidentally shot himself with a firearm left unattended inside the home, according to local authorities.
East Point police officers responded to a shooting report on Hawthorne Way, where they found the child unconscious with a gunshot wound. He was rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, the toddler succumbed to his injuries.
Gun Belonged to the Child’s Father
The firearm used in the accidental shooting belonged to the child’s father, police confirmed. Investigators say the young boy went downstairs looking for his parents, who were asleep at the time, and gained access to the unsecured weapon.
“Guns and Children Do Not Mix,” Warns Police Chief
“Guns and children do not mix. It’s very simple,” said Chief Shawn Buchanan of the East Point Police Department.
“It’s a tragedy police across Metro Atlanta say happens too often.”
Chief Buchanan said the scene was so disturbing that several officers have voluntarily opted into counseling following the incident.
Neighbor Marquita Hillman also expressed sorrow:
“It’s really sad. I hate that it happened. People really need to keep guns away from kids to try to prevent something like this.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances around how the firearm was stored and whether any charges will be filed. Family members were home during the incident, but no additional injuries were reported.
This tragic loss is a sobering reminder of the dangers of unsecured firearms around children. Do you believe Georgia should strengthen safe storage laws for firearms in homes with kids?
Share your thoughts below to join the conversation.
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