3-Year-Old Boy Accidentally Shoots Himself Dead At Missouri Home In 'Horrific Tragedy'

A 3-year-old boy accidentally shot himself dead at a home in St. Louis, Missouri, on Thursday (May 14).

Officers responded to a home in the 4000 block of Peck Street around 9.45 p.m. after receiving a report of a shooting. The officers were informed that a 3-year-old child accidentally shot himself and he was already rushed to the hospital before they arrived. The boy died at the hospital.

Investigation revealed that the boy shot himself in the head with a gun and a teen was present in the home when the incident took place. It was not known whom the weapon belonged to.

The case was being investigated by the city’s homicide and child abuse units and anyone with any information was asked to contact the Homicide Division directly at 314-444-5371. Those who wished to remain anonymous can contact CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477). The identity of the child was not revealed.

Meanwhile, speaking about the incident Friday (May 15), Mayor Lyda Krewson said, “This is a heart breaking and horrific tragedy. It’s also a serious reminder of the responsibility that comes with having firearms in the house, especially with children.”

Earlier this month, a 3-year-old boy died after he accidentally shot himself at a home in Tucson, Arizona. Police responded to the home and found Bryson Skinner with a gunshot wound. The officers immediately gave the child first aid before the paramedics arrived and transported him to Banner University Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. The boy died at the hospital. Police confirmed that the boy died after accidentally shooting himself with a handgun that he found in the house.

In another incident last month, a 5-year-old boy shot himself in the hand with his father’s gun at a home in Chicago. While his parents were sleeping, the child found a handgun in his father’s pocket and took it to the bathroom. The handgun accidentally got discharged, striking him in his hand. The boy was rushed to a nearby hospital. He was listed stable and in good condition.