KHN – Chosen Morris, a 4-year-old boy, died after accidentally shooting himself in the head with a revolver he discovered in his parent’s car, according to Florida authorities.
The “tragic accident” occurred Friday evening as the Morris family was preparing to go out for pizza, according to the Davenport Police Department.
According to authorities, Chosen’s father, Robert Morris, was getting ready in the bathroom, while his mother, Quinta Morris, was on the computer in her bedroom.
Quinta Morris said she heard a “pop” and assumed her children had broken something, according to police. She went into the living room to speak with them, but only her 7-year-old and 11-year-old were present, according to authorities.
According to authorities, Quinta Morris started looking for Chosen when she realized the garage door was open. Chosen was found in the driver’s seat of the car with a gunshot wound to the head, according to authorities.
Chosen died on Saturday afternoon after being transported to the hospital by his parents, according to authorities.
Authorities believe Chosen was thrilled about the outing and went to the car to wait for his family when he discovered the weapon under the driver’s seat, police said. According to investigators, Robert Morris owns the Smith & Wesson M&P.40 caliber handgun.
“This is a tragic accident,” Davenport Police Chief Steve Parker stated in a release. “As a father and grandpa, I have no idea what Mr. and Mrs. Morris are going through right now. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Morris family as they deal with this devastating tragedy.
“It is important that gun owners know where their firearms are at all times, and when not in possession of their firearm, ensure it is properly secured with some type of lock, whether it is a trigger lock or stored in a locked cabinet or box,” Parker said ABC News via email.
Every year, hundreds of children in the United States unintentionally shot themselves or others, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.
In 2023, there were at least 411 unintentional shootings by children, making it the deadliest year on record since Everytown began counting in 2015. According to Everytown, minors committed at least 360 unintentional gunshots last year, killing 136 people.
Everytown reported at least 21 unintentional shootings this year, resulting in 11 deaths.
Reference: 4-year-old boy dies after accidentally shooting himself in head: ‘Heartbreaking tragedy’