Police: Boy killed after accidentally shooting himself
Aug 22, 2024, 3:53 PM | Updated: Aug 23, 2024, 2:12 pm
SANTAQUIN — A 5-year-old boy was killed after he accidentally shot himself with a handgun Thursday afternoon.
Lt. Mike Wall with the Santaquin Police Department told KSL TV the boy found a 9mm handgun in the backroom of his house and fired a single round, fatally hitting him.
Wall said the parents and his siblings were inside the home when the shooting happened but were not with the boy. The family attempted life-saving efforts until Santaquin EMS & Fire arrived and continued first aid, but the boy died due to his injuries on the scene.
“The father was doing CPR when we arrived,” Wall said. “There was obviously a tragic scene, and obviously, a handgun obviously discharged in one way or another; that’s part of the investigation we’re still looking into.”
Investigators do not suspect foul play and do not know how the boy got the gun.
The family released a statement, and expressed gratitude for first responders and their community.
The families involved said they “experienced an unimaginable tragedy, losing a cherished member who will be deeply missed. However, through our faith in Jesus Christ, we will get through this trial, as we feel his love so abundantly,” the release said.
“This heartbreaking incident has taught us difficult lessons, and we deeply regret that it unfolded this way. Our hearts are shattered, and we hope that our family’s loss serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly life can change. We hope this tragedy serves as a reminder for others to take every precaution to ensure the safety of their children.”
The family asked for privacy at this time, as they mourn the loss of “our beloved baby boy.”
This is a breaking news story and may be updated when more information is provided.
