2-year-old shot, killed at apartment near Grady, police say
2-year-old killed at home in shooting
A two-year-old living at the Ashley Auburn Point Apartment Complex off of Bell Street was shot and killed Sunday morning. He was at home with his parents and two siblings when it happened. Atlanta police have not finished their investigation yet, but think the shooting was accidental.
ATLANTA - A two-year-old was killed in a shooting at an apartment complex in downtown Atlanta late Sunday morning, according to police.
What we know:
It happened at 100 Bell Street SE, close to Grady Memorial Hospital and Selena S. Butler Park.
Police say the toddler was at home with his parents and two siblings – ages seven and 16.
What we don't know:
Not much else is known about the incident, including the child's name.
There has been no word yet on how this happened or whether anyone is facing charges.
Police say their investigation is ongoing, but so far, this appears to have been a tragic accident.
What they're saying:
"The child was self-transported by parents to Hugh Spalding hospital where he was pronounced deceased," Atlanta Police Homicide Commander Lt. Andrew Smith said. "At this time homicide investigators are on scene and speaking with the parents to determine the circumstances surrounding it. But right now it appears accidental."
"Everything is under investigation and if charges are appropriate they'll be filed. If not, they won't," he continued. "If you do have a gun, just keep it locked and secure, especially if you have small children around so we don't have tragedies like this."
Dig deeper:
According to the most recent data from the CDC, about half of unintentional shooting deaths of children occur in their home. The report also says the firearms used are usually stored loaded and unlocked, and they're taken from nightstands or sleeping areas.
The report also says unintentional injuries are the top cause of death for children between ages 1 and 17. Incidents related to firearms are the most frequent cause.
What's next:
FOX 5 Atlanta is working to learn more.
This story is developing. Check back for details. If you have additional information, pictures, or video email newstipsatlanta@fox.com.
The Source: This preliminary information was provided by the Atlanta Police Department. The statistics used provided by the Center for Disease Control through research titled "Unintentional Firearm Injury Deaths Among Children and Adolescents Aged 0–17 Years — National Violent Death Reporting System, United States, 2003–2021."