Child shoots father in accidental shooting on Columbus east side
COLUMBUS — A child accidentally shot their father on the city’s east side Tuesday afternoon, according to Columbus police.
The shooting occurred in the 1000 block of East Main Street around 2:30 p.m., police reported. Officers responded to reports of a shooting and found an adult male with a gunshot wound.
The victim was transported to a local hospital in stable condition, according to police. The extent of his injuries was not immediately released.
Investigation Details
Police said the shooting appears to be accidental and involved the man’s child. The age of the child was not disclosed by authorities.
“This appears to be an accidental shooting involving a child,” a Columbus police spokesperson said. Officers remained on scene Tuesday afternoon collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
No arrests have been made in connection with the incident, police said. The investigation is ongoing.
Gun Safety Concerns
The shooting raises concerns about gun safety in homes with children. According to national statistics, unintentional shootings by children occur regularly across the United States.
Columbus police have not released information about how the child gained access to the firearm or whether it was properly secured. The department’s investigation will likely examine these factors as part of the case review.
This incident marks another case of an accidental shooting involving a minor in the Columbus area. Police continue to urge gun owners to properly secure firearms, especially in households with children.
Community Response
The shooting occurred in a residential area of east Columbus near several businesses and homes. Neighbors reported hearing the gunshot and seeing emergency responders arrive at the scene.
Police cordoned off the area while conducting their initial investigation. The scene was cleared by early evening Tuesday.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Columbus police. The case will be forwarded to the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office for review once the investigation is complete.
Sources: NBC4 WCMH-TV
