SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an accidental shooting that sent two boys to the hospital.
Just before 11:30 p. Monday, a police officer was patrolling through the apartment complex in the 8800 block of East Harry in Wichita when he heard shouting, according to Officer Charley Davidson.
The officer located a 12-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to his hand and a 15-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the leg.
EMS transported the boys to an area hospital for medical treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
The investigation revealed that the boys were playing with a handgun when it discharged, striking both of them.
"This case is a reminder that guns and kids don’t mix," said Davidson.
According to nationwidechildrens.org, “guns lead to thousands of deaths and injuries among children every year. Specifically, 1,300 children younger than 18 years of age die from shootings every year.” These incidents are preventable.
f you own a gun:
· Always store guns unloaded and security locked;
· Use a gun case, gun safe, or lockbox for safer storage;
· Store ammunition in a separate location; and
· Talk to your children about gun safety.
If you find a gun:
· If you find a gun, leave it alone and tell an adult;
· Always assume a gun is loaded;
· Never point a gun at anyone; and
· Ask your parents about proper gun safety.
Practice gun safety to protect yourself and your family.