Grand Rapids, Mich. — A 3-year-old child was hospitalized Saturday afternoon after accidentally shooting themselves in what police are calling an accidental self-inflicted injury. The incident occurred just after 12 p.m. on the 700 block of Sinclair Avenue, near Bradford Street NE.
According to the Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD), the child was transported to the hospital with serious injuries that are not considered life-threatening. Authorities have not released further details about the extent of the injuries.
“Preliminary investigation indicates this was an accidentally self-inflicted injury,” GRPD said in a press release. The department is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, specifically focusing on whether the firearm was stored safely.
Michigan’s safe storage law, which went into effect in early 2024, mandates that gun owners must securely store firearms in a locked container or box when they know a minor is likely to be present in the home. The law is designed to reduce the risk of children gaining access to firearms and accidentally injuring themselves or others.
GRPD officials have confirmed that the owner of the firearm is cooperating with the investigation. Police are working to determine whether the gun was stored in accordance with the state’s safe storage law.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at 616-456-3380 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of secure gun storage, particularly in households with young children, to prevent accidental shootings.
