MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A child was reportedly injured in an accidental shooting in the Bethel Grove area Friday afternoon.
Memphis Police responded to the shooting in the 2600 block of Kimball Avenue just before 2 p.m. Police say the child was taken to Le Bonheur in critical condition.
According to police, the shooting was a “self-inflicted accidental shooting.”
Neighbors told WREG the victim was a little boy possibly under the age of 5.
So far this year, officials say they have treated at least 30 children for gunshots. It’s a stat that’s hurtful for those on the frontline. Regan Williams, who is the Trauma Medical Director at Le Bonheur, deals with gunshot victims often and admits she worries about our youth.
“It’s not right. Our children shouldn’t be getting shot. More and more, all these shooting are random acts of violence,” Williams said.
While the child shot Friday evening along Kimball Avenue fights for his life, Kenny Lee with Ride of Tears believes this shooting falls on the parent.
“We need stricter gun laws. We need stricter guns, and we need stricter laws that’s go hold these parents accountable for their actions. If your child gets his or her hands on a gun, guess what, you’re the parent you’re the guardian, you should be charged,” Lee said.
Memphis Police have not revealed how the child got his hands on the gun.
With this being considered an accidental shooting, often times the gun owner faces charges. Police have not said yet if anyone will face charges in this case.
We are still working to learn more about the child’s condition.
