A toddler, just two years old, is currently hospitalized following an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound to his leg. Authorities report that the child accessed the firearm from his mother's purse while they were inside a parked car at an apartment complex in Miami Gardens.
The incident took place around 1:38 a.m. on Wednesday in the 2200 block of Northwest 210th Street, a residential area located just north of Hard Rock Stadium and behind Calder Casino in northwest Miami-Dade County.
According to Miami Gardens Police spokesperson, Diana Delgado, the child "was in the back seat of a vehicle, grabbed his mother's purse, took out the firearm, and accidentally shot himself in the leg." Delgado noted that the toddler was not secured in any type of child seat, which may have allowed him to reach the weapon.
The firearm was reportedly unsecured and within the child's reach inside the mother's bag. After the gun discharged, a woman was heard screaming for help, as recounted by several neighbors who heard the shot and rushed outside to see what was happening.
A white Nissan Altima parked at the complex became the focus of the investigation. Police detectives discovered bloodstains in the rear of the car, particularly on the passenger seat and the vehicle's exterior. The car was thoroughly examined by forensic experts.
The child was promptly treated by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) paramedics and rushed to Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital in Hollywood. Witnesses stated that the boy was conscious but sedated upon arrival. Police confirmed that his injuries are not life-threatening.
Local media outlets, including Telemundo 51 and NBC, captured footage of the ambulance arriving at the children's hospital, escorted by Miami Gardens Police patrol cars.
Community Reactions
The incident has left neighbors in the complex deeply shaken. Some reported hearing a single gunshot followed by a woman's frantic screams. Others described witnessing paramedics attending to the child in the early hours of the morning.
"My heart was broken, I cried. I woke my mother up... it's sad. I didn't even want to say that part, because it's like, you just don't want to see things like that," a neighbor told NBC Miami.
Another resident, Natasha Edge, expressed her devastation: "I have three kids, and reacting to an innocent child getting hurt says it all. There's no explanation for how you react. If one child gets hurt, we all suffer, we all bleed for that."
Ongoing Investigation
The police investigation is still underway. At this time, no information has been released regarding potential charges against any adults involved. The police spokesperson mentioned that Florida's Department of Children and Families has been notified and is participating in the inquiry.
Delgado took the opportunity to issue a warning: "To parents watching, if you own a firearm, it should not be accessible to anyone. It should be securely locked."
This incident has once again brought the issue of gun safety in homes with children to the forefront, especially when firearms are improperly stored without adequate safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Safety and Children
What should parents do to ensure gun safety around children?
Parents should always store firearms securely, with safety locks engaged, and out of the reach of children. It is also advisable to educate children about the dangers of firearms.
Are there legal consequences for improper firearm storage in Florida?
Yes, Florida law can hold individuals accountable if a minor accesses an improperly stored firearm, leading to injury or danger. Consequences can include fines or criminal charges.