2-YEAR-OLD FATALLY SHOT AFTER 4-YEAR-OLD RELATIVE FINDS UNSECURED GUN AT FLORIDA VACATION RENTAL
- Jul 13
- 1 min read
KISSIMMEE, Florida — A 2-year-old boy died after being accidentally shot by a 4-year-old relative who found an unsecured handgun inside a vehicle as family members arrived at a vacation rental home in Central Florida, authorities said.
According to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened just before 4 p.m. Sunday outside an Airbnb in Kissimmee, where the family had traveled from Louisville, Georgia, for a vacation.
Investigators said family members had exited the vehicle and were preparing to enter the rental home when the 2-year-old remained inside the vehicle. A 4-year-old relative then entered the vehicle, located an unsecured and unholstered handgun belonging to the child’s mother, and discharged the weapon.
Family members outside the vehicle reported hearing a gunshot before discovering the toddler had been struck.
Emergency responders transported the child to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, where he was later pronounced dead.
Authorities said one family member was also taken to a hospital after experiencing chest pains due to the emotional distress following the shooting.
The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office homicide unit responded to investigate the incident. The Medical Examiner’s Office and the Florida Department of Children and Families were also notified.
Officials said investigators have not yet interviewed the 4-year-old child. Authorities also noted they are continuing to determine the exact family relationship between the two children.
No arrests have been made. However, investigators said potential criminal charges remain under consideration pending consultation with the State Attorney’s Office.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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