HAMMOND, LA (July 17, 2024) – A tragic accident has claimed the life of a 3-year-old boy in Hammond, Louisiana. The toddler died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the face on Wednesday afternoon.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) received a 911 call shortly after 1 p.m. reporting the incident at a residence on Red Fox Drive. According to the TPSO, the young child had somehow gained access to a firearm and accidentally shot himself.
Despite immediate life-saving efforts by a parent and continued measures by first responders, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker expressed his condolences to the grieving family, asking the community to join him in prayer for them during this difficult time. He also emphasized the critical importance of gun safety to prevent such tragedies.
“The TPSO strongly advises securing firearms in locations that are not accessible to children,” Sheriff Sticker stated. “Consider using lock boxes or gun safes as additional safety measures, and always use trigger locks on all weapons.”
The investigation into the incident is ongoing as authorities seek to understand how the child was able to access the firearm.
For further information or to offer condolences, the public can contact the TPSO Public Information Office at [email protected].