tuesday, june 1, 2021 - gunaccidentjournal.net

GUN ACCIDENT JOURNAL X (61 days) June 1, 2021 to July 31, 2021

Ó The Gun Accident Journal (2021) 1

TUESDAY, JUNE 1, 2021 A nine-year old Canton, Mississippi child is in stable condition at the hospital after his two-year old sister found a loaded gun in the family truck and shot him in the head. Police say that the children’s parents had gone inside a home and had left the children in their truck unattended.

The Canton police chief said “[t]hrough our investigation, what we have found out so far is the daddy of the kids and mother just stopped here at the daddy’s mother’s house to go inside and visit for a minute, for a short period of time. And the kids were left in the truck and playing around and found the handgun.” Child protective services were called to the home.

According to the report, the children’s parents are likely to face negligence charges.

Source:

Jordon Gray, David Kenney, “9-year-old Child Shot by 2-year-old Sibling after Gun Left in Car,” WMC5 (June 2, 2021).

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2, 2021 For the second day in a row, a two-year old toddler got ahold of and fired a loaded gun. In this instance, a Joliet, Illinois toddler shot herself. According to the local police, she “unfortunately succumbed” to her injuries. No other information is available. Source:

“2-Year-Old Child Dies of Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound in Joliet, Police Say,” nbc5chicago (June 2, 2021).

THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021 A Myrtle Beach, South Carolina man showing off a new gun holster to his friend shot himself in the hand while dropping the magazine out of his gun. The man was treated at the hospital. Police found the gun in a filing cabinet and a shell casing on the floor.



In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a 21-year old man who was disassembling a pistol shot himself in the leg below the knee. He was also treated at the hospital. Sources:

“Police: Man Showing Off New Gun Holster Accidentally Shoots Self in Myrtle Beach,” WMBF News (June 4, 2021).

“Allegheny Township Shooting Accidental,” Altoona Mirror (June, 4, 2021).

THE DANGERS OF FACSIMILE WEAPONS MADE TO LOOK REAL

A good deal has been written about the risks of paint ball weapons and toy guns that are designed to look real. The marketplace has far too many facsimile weapons that can be mistaken as potentially lethal. Police officers frequently report being unable to tell the difference between individuals armed with real guns from kids armed with toys, the most famous example being the police shooting of Cleveland 12-year-old, Tamir Rice, at a neighborhood playground.

As Americans arm themselves for purported self-protection, there is an increasing risk of gunowners using real guns in response to the perceived threat they see in a facsimile or toy. An incident this week that is horrifying on many levels illustrates the problem. An Opa-locka, Florida, homeowner shot and wounded a ten-year old whose father had taken him to surprise his friends with a paintball gun “drive-by” shooting:



Michael Williams, 26, told Opa-locka police his son begged him to drive by a home where young people were gathered Sunday night so he could fire his paintball gun out the window, according to a police report released Tuesday.

Williams drove by the home as his son fired off several rounds, police said. The homeowner confused the paintball for real gunfire, telling police he thought his family was being attacked. He fired one shot, which struck the child. The boy then lost his balance and was run over by his father’s vehicle, police said.

Williams was charged with child neglect. According to police, Williams “acted recklessly by agreeing to conduct a drive-by paint ball shooting.”

Replica guns pose serious risks. Not only should parents recognize and protect their children against the risk that their toy guns will be misidentified as real, but better government safety regulation is necessary to protect children who thoughtlessly engage in dangerous conduct with fake guns.

Source:

Associated Press “Boy, 10, Shot Sfter Florida Man Let Him Use Paintball Gun in Drive-by Shooting, Police Say,” Tampa Bay Times (June 2, 2021).

FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2021 In Dallas, Texas, a five year old boy was shot and killed by an 8-year old who found a loaded gun. Authorities announced that they are investigating how the 8-year old fgot possession of the gun. No other details have been released. Source:

Jozelyn Escobedo, “5-year-old Boy Dies After Being Shot by Another Child in Dallas Apartment, Police Say,” wfaa.com (June 5, 2021).

SATURDAY, JUNE 5, 2021



A Mission Bend, Texas woman who went to her daughter’s home after an argument with her husband was shot multiple times by her son-in-law. He believed she was an intruder. According to the report, the 43-year old woman, who had been drinking, was banging on the back door when her son-in-law fired multiple shots through the door. The woman was struck in the chest, back and arm. Deputies said the woman is likely to be OK and that “charges are not likely.” The report says the woman was seeking comfort from her daughter in light of the argument. It does not explain why the woman’s son-in-law believed an “intruder” would bang on the door or why he did not simply ask whoever was banging to identify herself before firing. Source:

“Fort Bend County Woman Mistaken for a Burglar and Shot by Son-in-Law,” abc13.com (June 5, 2021).

SUNDAY, JUNE 6, 2021 In Miami Beach Florida, a Georgia woman accidentally shot her sister in the head while

they were filming a video for Instagram. The sisters were riding in a Jaguar SUV at the time of the accident. The woman, Taniyria Akias Holt, age 24, was arrested “on charges of culpable negligence inflicting personal injury and improper exhibition of a firearm.”

Police said the gun belonged to one of the other women inside the vehicle, but Holt was holding it and racked the firearm and saw a live round being ejected.“Thinking the firearm was free of live rounds, Ms. Holt said she went to pass the firearm to her (redacted) but accidentally shot her,” the arrest report stated.

The victim is on life support and is not expected to survive.

Source:

Amanda Batchelor, “Woman Arrested after Accidental Shooting in Miami Beach Leaves Sister on Life Support,” Local10.com (June 8, 2021).



MONDAY, JUNE 7, 2021

Thomas Marrinan, a retired New York transit police officer was shot by a friend, a former corrections officer, when the two attempted to subdue an unruly man during a street fight in Brooklyn, New York. Robert Velasquez, the former corrections officer, accidentally shot his friend when he pulled his gun to end a scuffle with a third man, Michael Soto. Marrinan and Velasquez had attempted to come the aid of Velasquez’s father, who was being harassed by Soto. After a confrontation in the street, Velasquez pulled a gun, apparently to subdue Soto, and fired the shot that killed Marrinan. Soto has been arrested but not charged.

Police sources said Marrinan retired from the department in 2015 after 23 years on the job. “He is a terrific human being. It’s a real tragedy,” said a friend of Marrinan. Marrinan’s neighbor called him “the sweetest man I have ever known.”

Witnesses report that Soto was leaving the scene at the time the incident began. While leaving the scene, he apparently threatened Velasquez’ father.

There is no word about whether Velasquez will be charged for accidentally killing his friend.

Source:

Larry Celona, Joe Marino, Tina Moore and Kenneth Garger, “Retired NYPD Cop Dead After Being Shot by Friend During Scuffle in Brooklyn,” New York Post (June 7, 2021).



TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 2021 For the second time this week, a man who believed he was acting In self-defense shot and killed someone in error. In today’s incident, 37-year old Mathew Sharpf shot and killed his best friend, Jonathan Hankins, also 37, in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. Hankins was knocking on a window of Sharpf’s home when the fatal shot was fired.

Friends described Hankins as a man with a boisterous personality. “You find one real friend in life and that was Matt and John,” a family member said.

Sharpf was arrested and charged with voluntary manslaughter. “Matt loved John, he would never intentionally try to harm him,” a family member said.

Source:

“Family: Man Accidentally Shoots, Kills Best Friend,” NBC12 (June 9, 2021).

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9, 2021

In Americus, Georgia, a 16-year old boy was listed in critical condition after being accidentally shot. He and a group of boys were horsing around with a gun on the back deck of a local home. One of the boys, Jordan Hamilton, age 17, was arrested and charged with reckless conduct. In Waterbury, Connecticut, a state parole officer was injured in a shooting range accident. She shot herself in the leg. And in Westland, Michigan, a three-year old found his mother’s loaded gun and shot himself in the hand. Sources:

“One Arrested After Juvenile Shot in Americus Wednesday” WGXA.tv (June 10, 2021).

Jonathan Shugarts, Andrew Larson, “Parole Officer Accidentally Shoots Self in Leg at Waterbury Gun Range,” Republican American (June 10, 2021).

Derick Hutchinson, “3-year-old Westland Boy Shoots Himself in Hand after Finding Mother’s Gun,” clickondetroit.com (June 10, 2021).



THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021 In Youngstown, Ohio this afternoon, two teenagers were playing with a gun when one of them was shot and killed. Malik Stewart, the victim, was 16-years old. His friend, also 16, was arrested and charged with reckless homicide and tampering with evidence, both third-degree felonies.

Fifty people have been shot in Youngstown so far this year of whom 13 have died.

Source:

Joe Gorman, “Coroner Identifies 16-year-old Victim in Youngstown Homicide,” WKBN27 (June 11, 2021).

FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 An Atlanta, Georgia three-year old shot himself in the hand when he found a loaded gun in his home. The boy’s mother was in the next room at the time of the incident.

The boy is in stable condition at the hospital. No decision has been made about whether his mother will be charged.

Source:

LaPorsche Thomas, “Toddler Recovering after Shooting Self; Police Say Mother was Home,” 11Alive.com (June 11, 2021).

SATURDAY, JUNE 12, 2021

All over the country today, people were injured, in some cases critically, in gun accidents. The available news reports make it difficult to separate those who were engaged in unsafe practices from those who were injured based on lack of safety features on their guns. In most cases, accidents can presumably be attributed to both factors.

The absence of safety features such as loaded chamber indicators, external manual safeties, manual safety disconnects and moderate to heavy trigger pulls make gun accidents



like these more likely. Absence of meaningful pre-purchase gun training requirements compounds these problems. In Woburn, Massachusetts, 22-year old Antonio Braz was showing a friend his new .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol inside a home when it discharged. The friend, age 19, was struck in the neck. Braz had only recently received a license to carry under Massachusetts law. In Fairfield, Connecticut, a 51-year old man was holstering his gun inside his waistband when it discharged. He was struck in the finger. Police say the man was properly licensed and that there was no criminal negligence. In Topeka, Kansas, a 13-year old girl was shot in an incident that is being investigated as accidental. In Champaign, Illinois, Javier Sibley, a 20-year old man, accidentally shot his friend in a car when he was manipulating the safety on his handgun. The victim is critically injured. Sibley then turned the gun on himself and shot himself in the head. He died of his wound. In Houston, Texas, a man was putting his gun away when it accidentally discharged and struck his 9-year old son in the chest. The boy is in stable condition at the hospital. According to the report, the family is undergoing an “unthinkable tragedy.” The report does not explain what caused the gun to go off while it was being put away, including whether the gun has a manual safety disconnect or an external manual safety. It is likely, based on these reports, that all of these accidents could have been prevented with various safety features had they been present on the guns that were accidentally fired. Sources: [Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

SUNDAY, JUNE 13, 2021 In Grande Prairie, Texas, 29-year old Marque Wilford Johnson accidentally discharged his firearm inside his apartment. The bullet passed through an apartment wall and struck and killed his 32-year old neighbor. Johnson was arrested and charged with manslaughter.



Source:

“North Texas Man Arrested For Allegedly Shooting Through Apartment, Killing Neighbor,” 11/21 CBS DFQ (June 14, 2021).

MONDAY, JUNE 14, 2021 In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a 22-year old man was arrested after pointing and firing a gun that he believed to be unloaded. The man, Zachary Shipley, was playing video games with his friend, Christian Price, also 22, and wanted to frighten him. Price was struck in the head and killed.

Shipley had taken the magazine out of the gun, but had forgotten the round in the chamber. He called for help and attempted to give Price aid, but Price died at the hospital.

This is the type of incident that could have easily been prevent by a magazine safety

disconnect. Adequate safety training might also have helped.

Sources:

“Tulsa Man Shot, Killed While Playing Video Games; Shooter Arrested For Manslaughter,” News On 6 (June 15, 2021).

TUESDAY, JUNE 15, 2021

A 14-year old Jacksonville, Florida boy was arrested and charged with negligence after a 6-year old found a gun in a bedroom of his home and accidentally killed himself with a gunshot wound to the head. Police said the 14-year-old is accused of improperly storing the gun because he had had possession of the weapon earlier that day. The child, 6-year old Danny Waye III, was “a precious little boy, full of life,” according to a family friend. His grandmother called the shooting a “freak accident.” She was apparently asleep in the home at the time of the accident.

“One of the things that we always cover is the importance of safe storage,” a local gun advocate said. “Florida Law requires that if you have reason to believe that children might gain access to a firearm in your home, that you have to store it in some way where a reasonable person would not expect a child to gain access.”



Reports do not explain how the 14-year old had access to the gun. Nor do they explain why a manufacturer would design a gun without safety features, such as an external manual safety or an integrated gun lock, that would prevent a 6-year old from shooting it. Sources:

Ashley Harding, Brittany Muller, Brie Isom, “14-year-old Charged with Negligence in Fatal Shooting of 6-year-old Boy,” News4Jax (June 16, 2021).

Dan Scanlan, “JSO: Jacksonville Boy, 6, Accidentally Shoots Himself; Teen Charged with Culpable Negligence in his Death,” The Florida Times Union (June 16, 2021).

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 In an incident caught on video and later broadcast on local television, a Newbury, Ohio man accidentally shot himself in the face with a pistol at a local gun range. His injuries apparently were not life threatening. In Crowley, Louisiana two teenagers were handling a gun when it discharged. One of them was shot in the head and is in critical condition at the hospital. The other teen has been charged with illegal discharge of a firearm, illegal possession of a firearm by a juvenile, possession of stolen property and negligent injury. Sources:

Peggy Gallek, “Video: Man Accidentally Shoots Himself in Face at Local Gun Range,” Fox 8 (June 17, 2021).

Hana Maung, “1 Person Shot in Head Wednesday on Accident; Deputies Said Both are Juveniles,” The Acadiana Advocate (June 17, 2021).

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 In Temple, Maine, a two-year old found a loaded gun in his home and used it to accidentally shoot and kill himself. Other family members were home at the time of the accident.



The incident comes just over a month after another Maine two-year old found a loaded Glock piston on a nightstand in his home and fired a round that struck both his parents. The boy’s father, Ian Carr, was arrested after that incident. Sources:

“Police: Child Killed by Accidental Self-inflicted Gunshot in Temple,” WGME (June 17, 2021).

“Father Arrested after Being Shot by 2-year-old in West Bath,” WGME (May 17, 2021).

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2021

Two women were severely injured today when men they were with mishandled guns. An 18-year old Danville, Illinois woman is in stable condition after she was accidentally shot in the chest by her 16-year old boyfriend who mishandled a handgun. The boyfriend was taken into custody on charges of reckless discharge of a firearm and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon by a person under 21 years old. Police are investigating how a 16-year old was in possession of a gun. Notably, a similar incident occurred yesterday in Minooka, Illinois, where a man dropped a gun and a woman was struck. In Raleigh, North Carolina, a man mishandled a gun and struck a woman in the shoulder, collapsing a lung. The man was “demonstrating how to clear a weapon and he demonstrated wrong,” a Raleigh police officer said. Charges are likely. Sources:

“Teen Accidentally Shoots Girlfriend in Chest, Police Say,” News Channel 20 (June 18, 2021).

Rodney Overton, “Woman Taken to Hospital after Man Mishandles Gun, Shoots Her, Raleigh Police Say,” CBS17.com (June 18, 2021).

SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 2021 Six women and a toddler were struck by stray bullets in four incidents today. Although the shooters may have had violent intent, all of the women struck were not intended targets.



In Aurora, Colorado, numerous shots were fired by two or more shooters outside an apartment complex. Two of the rounds passed into the building. A mother and her four-year old child were struck and injured. Neither suffered life-threatening wounds. In Manhattan, New York, a 19-year old and a 17-year old were caught between feuding groups of men. Both women were shot in the leg and taken to a local hospital. In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, according to a police report, two adult women were caught in the cross-fire in a feud among juvenile shooters. Both were struck and injured. They are hospitalized in stable condition. And in Brooklyn, New York, a man and his girlfriend were playing with a .22 caliber pistol in their bedroom when the woman was accidentally struck in the chest. She is in critical condition at the hospital. Her boyfriend, Kevin Hor, was arrested and charged with attempted murder. Sources: [Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 2021 As gun violence continues unabated across America, a 32-year old Chicago man who was simply standing on a sidewalk in Humboldt Park was shot in the back. Also in the park, a 28-year old women was shot in the head while she was driving a car, causing her to crash. Both victims are hospitalized, one in critical and the other in fair condition. Police are investigating, but believe the victims were simply innocent bystanders injured by other people’s misuse of guns. Source:

“2 Shot, 1 Critically, in Humboldt Park,” Chicago Sun-Times (June 20, 2021).


In Houston, Texas, a gunshot struck and injured a six-year old boy inside his home, according to the Houston sheriff. He is in stable condition at the hospital.



"They're just shooting for fun," said a neighbor. "That's amazing to me, because they're shooting to these houses. As a mother, it broke my heart ... because someone who doesn't have respect for human life for no reason. This has to stop."

"It's unfortunate people think they can just park in that area and shoot a firearm in the

direction towards the houses," a sheriff’s deputy said. "I think people need to use common sense when using firearms. Never point or shoot it at the direction of a home. There are ranges you can go to. You don't shoot them in neighborhoods."

Source:

Miya Shay, “6-year-old Boy Hit by Stray Bullet at his Home in N. Harris Co.” ABC13 (June 22, 2021).

TUESDAY, JUNE 22, 2021 In Detroit, Michigan, three children found a loaded gun in their home. One of them pulled the trigger and accidentally shot and killed a 12-year old boy. The victim’s twin and a 13-year old cousin were present at the time of the accident, but it is unclear who pulled the trigger. No adults were present in the home at the time. This incident was at least the third in which a Detroit child was shot in less than a week. Sources:

Brandon Champion, “Boy. 12, Dies after Being Shot in Front of Twin, Cousin Inside Detroit Home,” MassLive (June 23, 2021).

Mara MacDonald, Natasha Dado, “12-year-old Boy Killed in Detroit Amid Recent Surge in Gun Violence, Police Say,” ClickonDetroit (June 23, 2021).


In Surry County, North Carolina, two Sheriff’s deputies were injured due to “accidental discharge of a firearm” during a training exercise at a local firing range. Both deputies were treated for minor injuries and the Sheriff’s department has opened an internal investigation.



Source:

Paul Choate “2 Surry County Deputies Injured by ‘Accidental Discharge of a Firearm’ During Training Event” Fox 8 (June 23, 2021).

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021 A Hopkinsville, Kentucky 15-year old was critically injured in a gun accident today. He was hospitalized locally with critical injuries, but was expected to be transferred by helicopter to Nashville for further treatment. No details of the circumstances of the accident were released. In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a city riven by recent gun violence, a 12-year old boy accidentally shot himself in the leg on the front steps of his home. Police found a blood trail from the steps to an upstairs bedroom. The boy is in stable condition at the hospital. And in Chubbuck, Idaho, a man shot himself in the leg in his car while sitting in a Sherwin-Williams paint store parking lot. His handgun accidentally discharged. He was taken to a hospital and is expected to survive. Sources:

“Teen Critically Injured in Apparent Accidental Shooting,” WHOP News Radio (June 24, 2021).

“12-year-old Boy Shot Himself in Leg in Strawberry Mansion, Police Say,” Fox 29 (June 24, 2021).

“Man Accidentally Shoots Self in Chubbuck Paint Store Parking Lot,” Idaho State Journal (June 25, 2021).

FRIDAY, JUNE 25, 2021



A child, believed to be 6 or 7 years old, shot themselves in their Burbank, Illinois home today, sometime in the midafternoon. No details of the circumstances of the accident were released. In Milton, New Hampshire a 32-year old man was shot in the head by his 8-year old nephew while hunting chipmunks. "It's not against the law for anyone to teach a child how to shoot and take them hunting, even at 8 years old," the local police chief said. "There are kids who learn how to hunt and shoot a lot younger than that. This was truly just a freak accident." No charges will be filed.

Sources:

Gaynor Hall, “Child Dies after Shooting inside Burbank Home,” WGN 9 (June 25, 2021).

“'Freak Accident': Man Shot in Head by 8-year-old Nephew while Shooting Chipmunks,” Foster’s Daily Democrat (June 25, 2021).

SATURDAY, JUNE 26, 2021 A three-year old and a ten-year old died in gun accidents on opposite sides of the country today when they found loaded guns in their homes. In Fresno, California, 3-year old Bryson Vang found his father’s loaded gun and shot and killed himself. His parents and siblings were home at the time. The gun was properly registered and no charges will be filed. The other accident occurred in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where an unidentified 10-year old found a gun. He was home alone with his 8-year old sister at the time. "Supposedly there was a gun inside a cabinet that the children located and, at some point, the child discharged the weapon into his own head," a Philadelphia Police Captain said. "We're looking into how the gun got on location and who the owner of the gun is."

"We as a society got to get it together, because our young children should not be having to go through this," said a neighbor. Sources:

Peter Lopez, “3-year-old Gunshot Victim Identified,” Fox 26 News (June 27, 2021).



“Police: 10-year-old Dies after Self-inflicted Shooting in Tioga-Nicetown,” 6 ABC Action News (June 26, 2021).

SUNDAY, JUNE 27, 2021 In Manhattan, New York, a newly commissioned off-duty New Jersey trooper accidentally fired a round on a Penn Station train platform while adjusting his holster. He shot himself once in the leg and was treated at the hospital. No word about whether the gun had a manual safety and whether it was deployed. There were also two notable stories about children who injured themselves with guns found in their homes:

• For the second day in a row, a Fresno, California child found a gun in his home and shot himself. In this case, an eight-year old shot himself in the hand and is expected to survive. Yesterday, a Fresno three-year old shot and killed himself with his father’s gun.

• And continuing a pattern of accidental shootings by children in and around Columbus, Ohio, a 14-year old found his father’s handgun in his home there and accidentally shot an 11-year old relative in the stomach. The 11-year old is expected to survive.

Sources:

Joshua Rhett Miller, “Off-duty NJ Trooper Accidentally Shoots Self Inside Penn Station,” New York Post (June 28, 2021).

Larry Valenzuela “8-year-old Hospitalized after Accidentally Shooting Self in Fresno Home,” The Fresno Bee (June 27, 2021).

“Police: 11-year-old Boy Injured in Accidental Shooting in North Columbus,” 10 WBNS (June 28, 2021).




Four kids were killed or injured as innocent bystanders to other people’s violence in three incidents today.

In Statesville, North Carolina, an eight-year old girl was killed and a nine-year old boy was injured when a gunman pulled up at their home in a car and started shooting. They happened to be caught outside. Ah’miyahh Howell, the eight-year old, died at the hospital. No arrests have been made.

“It makes me upset that you took my granddaughter away from me. She didn’t even get to live her life. She didn’t get to grow up,” her grandmother said. She described her granddaughter as a smart, sassy little girl who enjoyed TikTok.

In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, a six-year old and his mother were also shot by unknown

suspects firing from a car at another group of suspects who were firing back. Police say the victims were not the intended targets of the shooting. Both are expected to survive. “We are hoping the fact that a 6-year-old child was shot on his porch would create enough empathy that people would come forward,” police said.

In Manhattan, New York, a 1 9-year old was shot while playing basketball. Police say he

was not the intended target of the shooting. No arrests have been made. "I'm happy," the victim Jaylin Anderson later told reporters. "I'm just happy that I'm alive and it didn't hit anything else -- an artery, or a vital organ."

Sources:



“‘She Didn’t Get to Grow Up.’ Young Girl Killed in Possible Drive-by Shooting in Statesville, N.C.,” 3 WBTV (June 29, 2021).

Christine Vendel, “Harrisburg Mom in Critical Condition, 6-year-old Son Hospitalized After Getting Caught in Gunfire: Police,” Pennlive.com (June 29, 2021).

“Basketball Star Injured in Apparent Drive-by Shooting in Manhattan,” abc7ny.com (June 29, 2021).

TUESDAY, JUNE 29, 2021 Michelle Cummings, a Houston mom visiting Annapolis, Maryland to drop off her son at the Naval Academy was killed as an innocent bystander when someone opened fire near the hotel where she was staying. She was on the patio of the hotel at the time of the shooting. Apparently the round that killed Ms. Cumming was fired on another street and traveled a significant distance before striking her.

Her son, a football prospect entering the Academy, posted a reaction to his mother's death on his social media asking one simple question: "Why?"

Source:

Jonathan Franklin, “Mom of Prospective Naval Academy Football Player Killed in Drive-by Shooting,” WUSA 9 (July 1, 2021).


Devonte Carter, Jr., a 4-year old, found his father’s loaded gun and accidentally shot himself to death in Jennings, Missouri. His father, Devonte Carter, Sr., age 25, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and unlawful possession of a firearm and is being held on a $250,000 cash-only bond.

Source:

“4-year-old Jennings Boy Fatally Shot Himself with Father's Gun, Police Say,” KMOV 4 (July 1, 2021).



THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2021

For the second time in less than a week, a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ten-year old has died in a gun accident. In the latest incident, a 10-year old girl was found to have suffered a wound to the head in West Philadelphia. She died at the hospital.

“Less than one week after meeting with family in the hospital of a 10-year-old child who died as the result of a self-inflicted gunshot, another 10-year-old has died in a similar fashion,” the Philadelphia Police Commissioner said in a statement. “These tragedies are completely preventable, and it is the responsibility of adults to keep guns out of the hands of our kids. Never leave guns unattended or easily accessible — we must do everything possible to ensure that our children are safe in their homes.”

More than 100 children under age 18 have been shot in the city so far this year, according to public data analyzed by the Center for Gun Violence Reporting in Philadelphia. At least 20 have died.

Source:

Rob Tornoe, “Another Philadelphia Child Dies in an Accidental Shooting,” The Philadelphia Inquirer (July 2, 2021).

FRIDAY, JULY 2, 2021 In Moore, Oklahoma, a 19-month old baby was taken to a local trauma center with an accidental gunshot wound that occurred, according to his family, when a gun “fell off a dresser and discharged.” The baby was shot in the abdomen.

The family is cooperating and no charges are contemplated. “It’s sad and our prayers

are with the family,” said a Moore Police lieutenant. “We’re just going to handle it, talk with the family and figure out what exactly happened. We feel like this was an accidental situation.”

No information is available about the type of gun involved in the accident in order to

determine if drop fire is a known problem with that particular make and model of weapon.

Source:

Hicham Raache, “1-year-old Baby Shot in Moore; Family Member Tells KFOR Shooting was Accidental,” KFOR News 4 (July 2, 2021).



SATURDAY, JULY 3, 2021 At least three toddlers and two teenagers were injured in gun accidents today. The reported details of most of the incidents are limited or murky.

In Birmingham, Alabama, a two-year old apparently shot himself inside a vehicle at a gas station. The news story implies that the child found a gun in the car, perhaps while a family member was pumping gas. His injuries aren’t believed to be life threatening.

A Florence, South Carolina toddler is fighting for his life after being taken to the hospital with a gunshot wound. Police have preliminarily concluded that the 2-year old was involved in a gun accident. No other details are available.

In Dolton, Illinois, a four-year old shot himself in the leg. His mother told police that she was home with another person at the time, but does not know where the gun came from. Police are investigating.

In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, a group of teenagers were playing with a gun when it fired and one of them was struck in the leg. No information is available about the age or condition of the teen.

An Annapolis, Maryland teen accidentally shot himself in the leg. According to police, the injury is not considered life-threatening.

Sources:

[Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

SUNDAY, JULY 4, 2021 Although there were many hundreds of incidents of gun violence on Independence Day, there were thankfully no deaths clearly associated with celebratory gunfire. However, several people were injured in such incidents across the country. Also today, a six-year old Knoxville, Tennessee boy found a gun and shot himself to death.

In Raleigh North Carolina, Alexandria Christie was sitting in her backyard when she was struck by a bullet falling from the sky. She suffered a graze wound. She said she feels fortunate to be okay and is glad the bullet hit her and not a child or animal. "Guns are not toys," she said. "I could have been killed." For example, just last year, a Durham, North Carolina woman was struck and killed by celebratory gunfire.



In Suffolk, Virginia, Shareka Robinson’s nephew Carter was grazed by celebratory gunfire during a family barbecue. He was struck in the head. “A bullet has to come down once you shoot up. It could've taken my nephew's life. It could've taken anyone's innocent life and there were seven kids out here playing," said Robinson. In Tampa, Florida, a person was struck on the wrist on the top floor of a parking garage. The source of the celebratory gunfire is unknown.

Finally, in Knoxville, a 6-year old accidentally shot himself when he found a gun in his home. He died shortly after arrival at the hospital. An investigation is ongoing.

Sources:

[Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

MONDAY, JULY 5, 2021

Adam L. Carroll of Lenexa, Kansas, died today after his friend negligently fired a gun inside an apartment building. The shooter, who was not identified, immediately called 911 and attempted life-saving measures. There is an ongoing investigation. "I just hope it was an accident and, at the end of the day, they just get down to the end of the story and see what’s going on," a neighbor said. In Waco, Texas, a 5-year old boy found a loaded gun in the backseat of a car with him and shot himself in the leg. His mother, who was in the driver’s seat, claimed she was unaware that there was an unsecured gun in the car. A representative of the Waco police said “this is an opportunity to remind the public of the importance on gun safety; any individual that chooses to carry is responsible for their firearm.” There is an ongoing investigation. Sources:

Zoe Brown, Leslie Aguilar, “Police: Man Handling Gun Accidentally Shot, Killed Friend in Lenexa,” KCTV5 (July 6, 2021).

Khadeeja Umana “Waco PD Investigating Shooting of 5-year-old Boy, Emphasizes Gun Safety,” KXXV 25 (July 6, 2021).



TUESDAY, JULY 6, 2021 A four-year old and a three-year old apparently found guns and shot themselves to death today.

In Colorado Springs, Colorado, a four-year old found a gun in the family car and shot himself in the head. He died at the scene. At the time of the incident, which occurred in a parking lot, the boy’s father had gone into a store, but the boy’s mother and a younger sibling were in the car.

The boy’s parents, Ashlynne and Carlos Perez have been arrested and booked into the El Paso County Jail and charged with “criminally negligent child abuse resulting in death.”

"This is a tragic investigation that not only affects the family of the victim, but it affects our community and our first responders. We want to remind the community to be sure to talk to your children about guns, even if you do not own guns. If you own guns, gun safety must be taught to all those that are near the gun, the gun must be stored unloaded and locked up. All keys to the locks should be hidden. Our deepest condolences go to the family affected by this tragedy," said El Paso County Sheriff's Office.

Although details are scarce, a Halifax, Virginia three-year old apparently found a gun inside his home in the early morning hours today and shot and killed himself. “The toddler’s remains are reportedly being brought to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Roanoke for examination and autopsy.” Three adults and another child were home at the time. Sources:

Benjamin Lloyd, Mayo Davison, “Couple Arrested after Child found dead outside Maggie's Farm,” TheDenverChannel.com (July 7, 2021).

Colleen Guerry, “3-year-old Boy Dead After Early Morning Shooting in Halifax, State Police Say,” WFXR.com (July 7, 2021).

WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 2021 Two people died today in apparent gun accidents.



In Goodlettsville, Tennessee, police found 8-year old Brayden Bowling in his home, suffering from an apparent accidental gunshot wound. No specifics of the incident have been reported, including whether the boy found a loaded gun and shot himself. Brayden later died at the hospital.

The principal of Madison Creek Elementary School issued a statement that said: “Please join me in praying for the Bowling family as they grieve the tragic loss of 8-year-old Brayden. He was full of energy and a friend to so many a MCE. What a blessing it was to see him every morning at breakfast, where I would pretend to steal his food just to see his smile light up the cafeteria. Brayden left his family and our campus far too early. Rest in peace young man. You are already missed.”

In Clarksburg, West Virginia, Brandon Butler was showing his friend a “black and purple

.380 caliber pistol” when it accidentally fired and killed the other man, Marcus Barnett. Butler told police that “he removed the pistol from his pants pocket and was going to secure it while inside the house,” however, Butler said that Barnett “asked him to see the firearm.” According to the police complaint, Butler’s finger was on the trigger as he handed the gun to Barnett and it went off.

Butler has been charged with being a former felon in illegal possession of a firearm.

Sources:

Rebekah Hammonds, “8-year-old Boy Dies in Accidental Shooting in Goodlettsville,” newschannel 5 (July 7, 2021).

“Fatal Clarksburg Shooting Ruled as Accidental According to Criminal Complaint Filed by Police,” 12 WBOY (July 8, 2021).

THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021

Two children were killed in gun accidents today, a baby boy and a 16 year old. In Jackson, Mississippi, one-year old Jordan Bradfield was struck in the head by a bullet fired by a 14-year old who was handling a gun. Jordan died at the hospital. No charges have been filed. The 16-year old was killed in Tulare, California when he and his sister’s boyfriend were disassembling a gun. They did not realize there was a round in the chamber. Source:



Mary Grace Eppes, Cecil Hannibal, “14-year-old Accidentally Shoots, Kills 1-year-old boy, Police Say,” 16 ABC WAPT (July 9, 2021).

“16-year-old Boy Accidentally Shot and Killed in Tulare, Police Say,” ABC 30 News (July 8, 2021).

FRIDAY, JULY 9, 2021 Two more children died in gun accidents today, a seven-year old girl and a five-year old boy. In Heber City, Utah, a man who was described as “incredibly intoxicated” fired a gun through an apartment wall. The round struck a seven-year old girl in the next apartment and killed her. Christopher O’Connell, age 34, was charged with manslaughter, carrying a dangerous weapon while under the influence, possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person, possession of marijuana and intoxication. Two of his companions were also arrested. The five-year old, a Sayre, Oklahoma boy, shot and killed himself with a loaded gun that he found in a parked car. There is an ongoing investigation. The police department announced that it will not release the child's name out of respect for the family and the investigation. Sources:

Lisi Merkley, “3 Arrested After Bullet Fired Through Apartment Wall Kills 7-year-old Girl,” KSL.com (July 10, 2021).

“5-year-old Child Dies after Accidentally Shooting Self in Sayre,” koco.com (July 9, 2021).

SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021



In a chaotic incident, a Chicago, Illinois man appears to have accidentally shot his girlfriend, the mother of his two children, while futilely trying to defend himself after a minor traffic accident today. The accident occurred during Chicago’s Puerto Rico day parade on June 19, but the circumstance are just being reported today. The man, Gyovanni Arzuaga, 24, was being pulled from his car by a swarm of people when his gun went off and struck and killed Yasmin Perez, age 25. Arzuaga was then shot and killed, “execution style” by another man who fled the scene. That man, Anthony Lorenzi, fled the scene and was later arrested in San Diego. Arzuaga and Perez apparently posted a photo of themselves with guns before the parade. They leave two young children behind. “It may look hard for a lot of people, but Yasmin was such a great mom,” her friend told a reporter. “She loved her kids so much. You could tell they were so loved, and they were so happy.” A police spokesman said, however, that Lorenzi is responsible for both deaths, even though Arzuaga accidentally shot Perez in the confusion. A reminder that tragic things happen once the guns come out. Source:

Mitchell Armentrout, “Man Charged with Fatal Shooting During Puerto Rican Day Parade, but Police say Victim ‘More than Likely’ Shot his Girlfriend Accidentally,” Chicago Sun Times (July 10, 2021).

SUNDAY, JULY 11, 2021 In Newton, Kansas, a 14-year old girl was shot and killed by a drunk 16-year old boy while hanging out with friends. The intoxicated boy apparently was waving a gun around and pointing it at members of the group when it went off and the girl was shot. The report does not provide information about how the boy got either the gun or the alcohol. After the incident, the boy was arrested at his home. “All of our guys are kind of struggling with it, it’s just hard to have somebody that age, die that violently, for no obvious reason,” said the local police chief. “We’re all shocked.” Source:

Ryan Newton, Hunter Funk, “Newton Police Arrest Teen after Hesston Girl’s Shooting Death,” ksn.com (July 13, 2021).



MONDAY, JULY 12, 2021 Two Tennessee children were unintentional victims of gun violence today; an 11-year old was killed and a 5-year old was injured in separate incidents. In Memphis, Tennessee, a single gunshot inside an apartment complex struck and killed an 11-year old, according to neighbors. Police are investigating. “It’s overwhelming, overwhelming, you know what I’m saying,” said a witness. “Just heartbreaking to see that happen these days you know.”

In Nashville, a stray bullet entered a home and injured the five-year old. The home was apparently in the crossfire as people started shooting at each other. “It’s usually a very quiet family-oriented street," a neighbor said. "We want to live in a world that’s filled with love and peace and harmony if that’s possible."

Source:

Jerrita Patterson, “Child Killed in Shooting at Apartments off State Line Road,” WREG (July 13, 2021).

Tommy Crouse, Alexandra Koehn, “5-year-old Hurt After Stray Bullets Enter a Family's Home,” NewsChannel5 Nashville (July 12, 2021).

TUESDAY, JULY 13, 2021 According to Maple Heights Ohio police, 5-year old Princeton Patterson found a loaded gun in his home and shot himself in the head. They found him dead at the scene.

There is an open question about whether an adult will be charged for failing to properly secure the gun. A local law professor says state law and how it’s interpreted varies not only by state, but by county. He suggests, “There are some prosecutors that will say, ‘I don’t need to charge the parents in this case, they are going to beat themselves up and punish themselves much more harshly than I ever could.’ Other prosecutors will look at it and say, ‘We do need to prosecute these cases to teach other parents to be responsible for what it is that they are doing.”



““I just know that he was a cool little kid. He’d come over here and play and talk to us,” says a neighbor. “Really, my little brothers’ best friend so they’d go over there and play with him. So, they were crying and hurting last night.” Source:

Kaylee Remington, “5-year-old Boy in Maple Heights Dies of Self-inflicted Gunshot Wound,” cleveland.com (July 14, 2021).

Will Ujek, “5-year-old Boy Dies from Gunshot Wound in Maple Heights,” wkyc.com (July 14, 2021).

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 In Wichita, Kansas, a three-year old found a gun and shot herself and her father while he was sleeping. The girl was struck in the hand and her father was struck in the leg. Both were treated at the hospital. Police are investigating how the firearm was stored. During the investigation, three other children have been placed in protective custody.

In La Place, Louisiana, DaJuan Waxter, age 20, was handling a gun when it accidentally fired. The round passed through a wall and struck a 14-year girl old in the back. After Waxter attempted to dispose of the gun in a trash can, he was arrested and charged with negligent injuring, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, obstruction of justice and illegal use of a weapon.

Sources:

Ryan Newton, “WPD: 3-year-old Girl Injured in Wednesday Shooting, 3 Other Children in Protective Custody,” KSN.com (July 15, 2021).

Michelle Hunter, “14-year-old Girl Accidentally Shot in LaPlace Home; Baton Rouge Man Arrested,” NOLA.com (July 14, 2021).

THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2021 Jason Smalley of Athens, Texas accidentally shot and killed his friend Stoney Conley in the mistaken belief that he was acting in self-defense. The two men were smoking meth together when they heard a suspicious noise. Smalley went to fetch his .22 caliber rifle and



aimed at a person he could only see from the waist down. When Smalley discovered he had shot his friend, he put his gun down and went to tell deputies.

Smalley was arrested and charged with murder.

Source:

Patrick Cunningham, “Sheriff: East Texas Man Sharged with Murder After Shooting Person He Was Smoking Meth With,” ketk.com (July 16, 2021).

FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 A 22-year old was killed and three children were seriously injured in gun accidents today. In Dunmore, Pennsylvania, 22-year old Tyler Sitar was accidentally shot in the stomach by his friend Luigi Lorusso, who was handling a gun. Sitar died of his wound and Lorusso was arrested and charged with manslaughter. Another Columbus, Ohio child, this time a five-year old, was injured today in a gun accident. The boy’s mother, who was intoxicated at the time of the accident, had been waving a gun around, but was attempting to put it away when it discharged and struck her son. The boy was shot in the leg and is in stable condition. His mother, Trenise Turner, was arrested and charged with endangering children and recklessly causing serious physical harm. In Wyoming, Michigan, a four-year old was in critical condition after an accidental shooting. Although local police announced that the shooting was accidental, no other information is available. In Houston Texas, a 13-year old boy was shot in the hip when a gun fell out of a box. Witnesses said they were moving things when the gun fell and the boy was struck. There is no report of the boy’s condition. Sources:

“One Dead, One Facing Charges after Fatal Shooting in Dunmore Friday Night,” PA homepage (July 17, 2021).

“Police: Intoxicated Mother Shoots 5-year-old Son While Putting Gun in Purse,” abc6onyourside.com (July 16, 2021).



Rose White, “4-year-old Shot, Injured in Wyoming, Police Say,” MLive Michigan (July 17, 2021). Ninfa Saavedra, “13-year-old Boy Accidentally Shot in Fifth Ward Area, HPD Says,” Click2Houston (July 16, 2021).


In West, Jordan, Utah, a 13-year old boy was accidentally killed by his 15-year old friend. According to police, the two had snuck out in the middle of the night with a handgun and were “messing around with it” in a church parking lot. “At some point, the 15-year-old accidentally pulled the trigger, shooting and killing the 13-year-old.” Neither boy’s name has been released out of respect for their families.

The 15-year-old called 911 immediately. “He was distraught, he wanted to help his friend, and he took the steps that he could to best help” his friend after the accident occurred, a police lieutenant said. He was nevertheless booked in a juvenile detention center on suspicion of manslaughter.

Police do not believe the gun was stolen. The advised gun owners “to practice firearm

safety, such as making sure guns and ammunition are secured and stored away from each other, as well as never pointing a gun at anyone or anything you're not trying to shoot.”

Source:

Spencer Burt, Spencer Joseph, “One Teenage Boy Dead, Another Arrested After Accidental Shooting in West Jordan,” Fox 13 (July 18, 2021).

SUNDAY, JULY 18, 2021 In Hickory, Mississippi, a three-year old found a loaded gun in the glove compartment of his family car and shot and killed himself while his parents were inviting people to a revival meeting. The boy’s parents were not charged. The local sheriff called the incident a “horrible accident.” No other details were reported. Sources:



“Newton County Three-year Old Dead after Accidentally Shooting Himself,” wtok (July 19, 2021).

MONDAY, JULY 19, 2021 For the second time this month, a Sumner County, Tennessee child was killed in a gun accident. In this case, which occurred in the small town of Westmoreland, the sheriff’s office announced only a fatal accident involving the death of a six-year old child. The office stressed that the incident was “purely accidental” and declined to release additional details. As reported earlier, on July 7, 2021, eight-year old Brayden Bowling of Goodlettsville, Tennessee died in a gun accident. The circumstances of that accident are also unavailable. Source:

Natalie Neysa Alund, “Law Enforcement: 6-year-old Killed in Second Sumner County Accidental Shooting,” The Nashville Tennessean (July 19, 2021).

TUESDAY, JULY 20, 2021 In Westport, Massachusetts, an off-duty police officer shot himself in the thigh with a .40 caliber round while training with his gun at a local firing range. According to the report, the incident occurred while he was “putting in or taking his gun out of the holster.” The officer’s injury was described as “minor” but his condition is unknown at this time. Source:

Ken Paiva, “Officer Accidently Shoots Himself at Westport Gun Range,” Fall River Reporter (July 20, 2021).

WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021

In Little Rock, Arkansas, a three-year old found a loaded gun and shot himself in the eye. The boy is in critical condition at the hospital.



There was no discussion in the article about how the boy obtained an unsecured loaded gun or about why manufacturers are allowed to design guns that a three-year old can fire. In Roy, Utah, a 16-year old boy and his friend were cleaning a gun without realizing that there was a round in the chamber. The gun fired and struck the boy in the chest. This is the second similar incident in Utah in just the last week.

In an interview, the boy’s stepfather said the handgun belongs to the boy’s 20-year-old brother. According to the interview, the magazine was cleared from the gun, but the teens didn't realize a bullet was still in the chamber. “That's when the friend pulled the slide and accidentally discharged the gun,” the stepfather said. He also said the bullet went through his son's stomach, tearing through an intestine but missing his kidney before it went through a wood door and stopped in another door. According to the stepfather, the boy’s life was saved because the round involved was “just target ammunition.”

There was no discussion in the article about whether more robust safety features, including a loaded chamber indicator, a magazine safety disconnect or a safer gun cleaning protocol, might have prevented this accident.

Sources:

“Police: 3-year-old Injured Self in 'Accidental' Shooting in Little Rock,” thv11.com (July 22, 2021).

Garna Mejia, “Utah Teen was Cleaning Gun Before Unintentional Shooting in Roy, Parents Say,” ksl.com (July 22, 2021).

THURSDAY, JULY 22, 2021 In Pensacola, Florida, a patron of O’Reilly’s Uptown Tavern pulled a gun to show it to other patrons. The incident was apparently caught on video. When he mimed an attempt to return the gun to a shoulder holster, it went off, striking him in the upper torso. "I don't know if he was pretending to be a badass or something," the bar manager said. "But from what I can tell, it was completely by accident." The man apparently left the bar before police arrived, but later checked himself into the hospital. The report does not indicate his state of inebriation. Nor does it say whether he drove himself from the scene. Ironically, while investigating, the police were asked to break up a fight outside the bar.



Source:

Collin Warren-Hicks, “O'Riley's Uptown Tavern Customer Accidentally Shoots Himself While Showing Off Gun,” Pensacola News Journal (July 23, 2021).

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 One child was killed and three were injured in accidental shootings today. In each case, reports of the incident contain minimal details. In Dallas, Texas, 17-year old Chadrick Good was shot and killed by a 16-year old who accidentally fired a gun while sitting behind Good in a vehicle. The 16-year old has been charged with manslaughter. According to the report, the 16-year old “had an accidental discharge.” In St. Louis, Missouri, a five-year old shot himself in the hand. It is unclear how he got hold of the gun. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch article lists reports demonstrating that at least 61 children in the St. Louis area have been injured or killed by gunfire already this year. A Memphis, Tennessee 6-year old is in critical condition with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The report states that it is unclear how the child got hold of a gun or “what led to the shooting.” Finally, in Atlanta, Georgia, a 16-year old was grazed by a bullet in an apparent accidental shooting. The article does not provide any details of the incident, which is still being investigated. Sources: [Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 A 6-year old child was killed and two teenagers were injured in accidental shootings today. Again, minimal details were reported. The 6-year old, Charles Garza of Amroy, Mississippi, was killed in a gun accident in his home. No details were reported other than that his father, Justin Garza, is a fire fighter. A Go-



Fund-Me page has been set up to assist the family. It states, in part, “Justin has been a fireman for many years and given countless hours to serve and protect our community. We are raising money to help the family with expenses during this difficult time.” Although her injuries are not considered life-life threatening, a 14-year old Camden, South Carolina girl was airlifted to the hospital after an accidental shooting. A 16-year old boy is taking responsibility for the accident, but no details have been reported. And a Dallas, Texas teen was critically injured in an incident in which he “unsafely” mishandled a gun. No further information, including his precise age, was provided. Sources: Associated Press, “Mississippi Community Raising Donations to Help Family of 6-year-old Who Died in Accidental Shooting Saturday,” Magnolia State Live (July 25, 2021).

Connor Lomis, “14-year-old Injured in Kershaw County Shooting,” wistv.com (July 25, 2021).

Kelli Smith, “Teen in Critical Condition After Accidentally Shooting Himself in West Dallas, Police Say,” The Dallas Morning News (July 24, 2021).

SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021

In High Point, North Carolina, a four-year old boy found a gun underneath a couch cushion and shot himself in the head. He later died at the hospital. His mother, Jasmine Eagan, has been charged with felony child abuse. Several adults were in the home at the time of the incident. According to the report, they were in the next room when the child shot himself, drinking, smoking marijuana and playing cards. Source:

“4-year-old Dies from Apparent Self-inflicted Gunshot Wound in High Point, Police Say; Mother Charged with Child Abuse,” Fox 8 (July 27, 2021).



MONDAY, JULY 26, 2021

At least eight teenagers were injured in eight separate shooting incidents in the United States today. In light of minimal reporting, the circumstances of most of the incidents are murky. Teenagers were shot in Chicago and Decatur, Illinois. The other incidents occurred in Iowa, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Louisiana and Delaware. As reported, the incidents in Decatur, Illinois, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Shreveport, Louisiana involved life-threatening injuries. The other victims were hospitalized in stable condition. No arrests were reported in any incident; they remain under investigation. Sources: [Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

TUESDAY, JULY 27, 2021 Once again, the focus today is on the rash of gun violence affecting American children. Three toddlers were shot in apparent gun accidents today. At least ten teenagers were also killed or injured in eight shootings across the country. Two four-year olds and a three-year old were involved in gun accidents that were barely covered in various media sources. A Detroit, Michigan four-year old found an unsecured gun and shot herself in her home. She is expected to recover.

In Saginaw, Michigan a four-year old was also shot inside his home. His condition is not known. The report indicates that the boy was the third child injured in a gun accident in Saginaw (a city of under 50,000 people) since the beginning of July, 2021.

The three-year old was injured in Ledyard, Connecticut. A preliminary investigation

indicates that the boy was shot in the hand with his father’s gun. It is unclear if the boy or his father accidentally pulled the trigger.

A teenage boy was shot to death in Louisville, Kentucky. The report indicates that two

teenage girls had been shot and killed in the same Louisville neighborhood earlier this week. The other gun violence affecting teenagers occurred in Sandy, Utah (affecting two

teens), Kalamazoo, Michigan, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (two teens), Chicago, Illinois, Rochester,



New York, Troy, Alabama, and St. Louis, Missouri. There is no report of anyone in custody in connection with any of these incidents.

Sources: [Hyperlinks above are to source material.]

WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 2021 A San Antonio, Texas woman who heard gunshots and retrieved her gun to protect herself shot herself in the leg while putting the gun away. She was taken to the hospital in stable condition. Source:

“Woman Hears Gunshots, Pulls Out Gun for Protection, Shoots Herself Putting Gun Away,” News4SA (July 29, 2021).

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2021 In Southport, Florida, a 5-year old child shot a 7-year old sibling with a 20-gauge shotgun while their mother slept in another room. Sheriff’s deputies found the 7-year old bleeding on the bathroom floor in her mother’s arms with “severe and Life-threatening injuries.” According to the report, the injured girl told investigators that her brother had accidentally shot her, but that she didn’t want to say anything that would get him in trouble. The child’s mother, Kayla Tully, age 32, was arrested and charged with cruelty toward a child, aggravated abuse, four counts of child neglect and unsafe storage of a firearm. She reportedly told police that she regularly left a loaded shotgun by the back door of her home. On the night of the accident, she did so because she had heard a dog barking. Source:

“Florida 7-year-old Shot by Younger Sibling While Caregiver Slept, Deputies Say,” News Channel 6 (July 29, 2021).



FRIDAY, JULY 30, 2021 Children were unintentionally injured in Indiana and Wisconsin today. The Indiana shooting occurred in Evansville, where a parent who was unloading his firearm accidentally shot his own six-year old child in the leg. The round passed through a wall before striking the child. In Milwaukee, an eight-year old was shot. Police are investigating, but have no suspects. No other circumstances of the accident are available. Presumably the child was an innocent bystander. Sources:

Makayla Neukam, “Police: Child Accidentally Shot in Evansville,” 14 News (July 31, 2021).

“MPD: 8-year-old Boy Shot Near 44th and Hampton,” CBS58.com (July 31, 2021)


Columbus, Ohio police urged residents to take advantage of a free gun lock program after a 5-year old girl found a loaded gun in her home and shot herself in the head. She died at the hospital. Columbus appears to be a city where gun violence involving children is common. The City of Columbus recently spent more than $8000 to buy 1500 gun locks and has made them available at local firehouses. "I implore you, I beg you, if you have a firearm and you don't have it secured in your house and you have children, please go by and pick up one of these gunlocks," the police commander said. Source:

“5-year-old Girl Dies After Accidentally Shooting Herself,” ABC 6 (July 31, 2021).

tuesday, june 1, 2021 - gunaccidentjournal.net

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