Incident Overview
In Tennessee, a tragic event unfolded when a 3-year-old boy was struck on the head by a rifle that discharged inadvertently in his mother’s car. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office reported the incident occurred as the mother drove along a street, resulting in the rifle being jostled out of position.
Circumstances of the Accident
The mother explained that the firearm, which was not secured in a holster, was dislodged due to the movement of the vehicle, leading to it striking her son. This unexpected movement led to the weapon firing a single bullet, impacting the child in the head.
Response and Investigation
Following the incident, authorities were alerted and the child was promptly taken to a local hospital. However, the specifics of his condition remain unclear. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a detailed investigation into how the firearm was stored and managed in the vehicle. No arrests have been made so far, and charges are pending based on the outcome of the investigation.
Safety Measures and Advocacy
This incident has ignited discussions on the importance of proper gun storage, particularly in vehicles. Advocates for gun safety emphasize the need for secure storage solutions to prevent such accidents. The Sheriff’s Office has not yet provided updates on measures being taken regarding this specific incident or any potential changes in local gun storage laws.