A 4-year-old boy in Statesboro, Georgia, tragically died after accessing an unsecured firearm inside a student apartment. Authorities say the child discovered the gun in a storage area while his grandmother was distracted, leading to a fatal gunshot wound.

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STATESBORO, GA (2-minute read) — A heartbreaking accident (born from negligence) unfolded Thursday evening in Statesboro, Georgia, when a 4-year-old child fatally shot himself after gaining access to an unsecured handgun inside a student apartment complex.

At approximately 5:46 p.m., officers from the Statesboro Police Department and medical personnel responded to The Hamptons Statesboro, a luxury housing development located near Georgia Southern University. Emergency services were dispatched following a 911 call reporting a child with a gunshot wound.

Responding officers immediately began life-saving measures before the child was transported to East Georgia Regional Medical Center. Despite efforts by emergency medical personnel, the boy was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Authorities reported that the young boy discovered the loaded handgun in a storage area within the apartment while his grandmother was occupied getting her hair done. The firearm was not secured, and tragically, the child pointed it at his head and pulled the trigger.

Investigators obtained a search warrant for the apartment and interviewed family members and residents to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of now, no charges have been filed, but the case remains under investigation. Once complete, it will be handed over to the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit’s District Attorney’s Office for further review.

The Importance of Proper Firearm Storage

This tragic event underscores the absolute necessity of responsible firearm storage, particularly in homes where children are present. Gun safes, lock boxes, and trigger locks are affordable and effective ways to prevent unauthorized access.

Situations like this, while heartbreaking, are 100% preventable with proper safety measures in place.

Safety Tip: Always secure your firearm in a locked container or with a trigger lock. Never leave a loaded firearm unattended, especially in homes with children.