Rancho Cucamonga, CA – Tragedy struck in Rancho Cucamonga when a 7-year-old boy accidentally fatally shot his 2-year-old brother after finding a gun in a vehicle’s glove box, authorities confirmed.
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The incident occurred around 4 p.m. on Monday inside a parked truck at a shopping center, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
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Accidental Shooting While Mother Was Outside
Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Gloria Huerta stated the shooting appears to have been accidental. The boys’ mother had parked the truck and was outside unloading items when the firearm was accessed, Huerta explained to media.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the type of gun involved or its registration status.
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Investigation Underway
The sheriff’s department announced that the investigation is ongoing. Once complete, the case will be reviewed by the district attorney’s office.
“Gun safety is a huge responsibility, but it is also a moral obligation that we have to our children,” Huerta emphasized during an interview with media.
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A Stark Reminder of Gun Safety Issues
This tragedy highlights a broader issue of firearm safety and children’s access to guns. Data from Everytown for Gun Safety, a nonprofit organization, reveals the alarming frequency of such incidents.
- In 2022, there were 411 accidental shootings by children—the highest number recorded since the organization began tracking incidents in 2015.
- As of this year, at least 270 unintentional shootings by children have been reported, resulting in 99 deaths.
A Call for Vigilance
This heartbreaking event underscores the importance of gun safety measures, especially in households with children. Advocates urge gun owners to secure firearms properly to prevent further tragedies.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate, and officials stress the need for community awareness regarding firearm storage and safety.
