A tragic accident in Crestline, California, has left a 2-year-old boy dead after he was accidentally shot by his 7-year-old brother.
The incident occurred on Monday, December 2, when the two young siblings were inside a truck parked in a Rancho Cucamonga shopping center parking lot.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the scene at approximately 3:53 p.m. and found the toddler had been shot.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Investigators determined that the 7-year-old had discovered a firearm inside the truck’s glove box. While handling the gun, it discharged, fatally wounding his younger brother.
Authorities have confirmed that the shooting was accidental, but the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division is continuing to look into the incident.
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A report will be submitted to the District Attorney’s Office for further review. The tragic accident highlights the continuing concern of child access to firearms in the United States.
According to the National Violent Death Reporting System, children aged 0-5 are among those most at risk of unintentional firearm deaths, with such incidents often occurring when unsecured firearms are left in easily accessible areas.
The Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. A hotline has been set up, and tips can be submitted anonymously.
This heartbreaking event serves as a painful reminder of the importance of secure firearm storage to prevent tragic accidents like this one.