Cheatham County, Tenn. (WKRN) – A Cheatham County family is mourning the death of a 3-year-old boy who investigators believe was accidentally shot in the head. This is a tragedy that illustrates a disturbing trend between children and guns.
“We experienced one of the worst tragedies you or I can imagine,” explained Lt. Shannon Heflin of the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office.
On Monday, April 29, the Sheriff’s Office received the call no one wants to hear.
“It’s very tough on the families and it’s very tough on the first responders who all responded,” Heflin said.
Cheatham County investigators have not said who pulled the trigger in a shooting at a Henrietta home that claimed the life of a toddler. However, the number of shooting incidents involving infants and preschoolers is increasing across the country.
From 2015 to 2022, the number of shootings by children 5 and under increased by 33%, according to data #NotAnAccident Index | Everytown Research & Policy.
“To actually pull the trigger, you just have to pull the trigger a few pounds. It doesn’t take that long, and some triggers are a little lighter and easier to pull than others,” Heflin explained.
Many say this tragedy can be prevented by storing guns properly.
Heflin said if there are children in the home, keep firearms locked and unloaded. Store ammunition in a separate space.
“Educate them about the dangers of firearms and the risks involved,” Heflin said.
Data shows that in 2021, a record 148 children under the age of 5 unintentionally shot themselves or someone else.
Many departments, including the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office and all Metro Nashville police precincts, are offering free gun locks in hopes that proper gun storage will prevent accidental shooting calls. are doing.
“It’s rare. Although it does happen. Every year there are probably one or two, but unfortunately this time it ended in a very tragic way and we are deeply saddened and our hearts go out to the family.” “I think about that,” Heflin said.
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Sheriff Tim Binkley said the investigation is ongoing, but added that another person was in the home at the time of the shooting. At this time, the shooting appears to be accidental.
“Out of respect for the family and the child who died, information and events regarding this incident are limited. The family requests privacy during this period of mourning,” authorities said in a statement.
