A routine afternoon in Evansville, Indiana, turned into every parent's worst nightmare when a two-year-old boy accidentally shot himself with a loaded handgun he discovered inside his own home.
The child, whose identity remains protected, is now fighting for his life in a local hospital after sustaining a critical gunshot wound. The incident occurred on Tuesday at a residence on South Kerth Avenue, sending shockwaves through the community.
According to Evansville Police Department officials, emergency services rushed to the scene following a distressed 911 call. They discovered the toddler with a severe gunshot injury. Preliminary investigations revealed the young boy had accessed an unsecured firearm that was left loaded within his reach.
Mother Faces Serious Charges
The child's mother, 22-year-old Keiara Bickett, was present at the time of the tragic accident. Police have since arrested and charged her with neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury—a Level 3 felony that carries significant potential penalties.
Court documents state that the handgun was not properly stored or secured, allowing the toddler to find and discharge the weapon. The exact location where the gun was found within the home has not been disclosed, but authorities confirmed it was easily accessible to the child.
Community Reacts to Preventable Tragedy
The incident has sparked renewed conversations about gun safety and parental responsibility in the Evansville area. Local safety advocates are using this heartbreaking case to emphasise the importance of secure firearm storage, particularly in households with young children.
"This was a completely preventable tragedy," said one community safety organiser. "Proper gun storage isn't just a recommendation—it's a fundamental responsibility that can mean the difference between life and death."
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine all the circumstances that led to the shooting. The Vanderburgh County Prosecutor's Office will handle the case against Bickett, who is currently being held pending further legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, the community holds its breath, hoping for the young victim's recovery while grappling with the sobering reality of how quickly childhood curiosity can turn tragic when firearms are not properly secured.
