A tragic incident occurred in Florida where a 4-year-old boy named Chosen Morris lost his life after finding a handgun in his parents’ car and accidentally shooting himself in the head. Authorities are investigating the heartbreaking accident.
On Friday evening, tragedy struck the Morris family as they were getting ready to go out for pizza, according to a statement from the Davenport Police Department.
Robert Morris, Chosen’s father, was getting ready in the bathroom while Quinta Morris, his mother, was using the computer in her bedroom, according to the police.
According to the police, Quinta Morris recounted hearing a loud “pop” and immediately assumed her children had broken something. She quickly made her way to the living room to speak with them, only to find that her 7-year-old and 11-year-old were the only ones present.
Chosen’s parents hurriedly took him to the hospital, where he tragically passed away on Saturday afternoon, according to the police.
Authorities speculate that Chosen, filled with anticipation for the outing, eagerly made his way to the car where his family was soon to join him. It was during this time that he stumbled upon the Smith & Wesson M&P .40 caliber handgun discreetly tucked away beneath the driver’s seat, according to police reports.
Davenport Police Chief Steve Parker expressed his condolences in a statement, acknowledging the tragic accident. He empathized with Mr. and Mrs. Morris, recognizing the unimaginable pain they must be experiencing. Chief Parker offered prayers and support to the Morris family as they navigate through this heartbreaking tragedy.
Every year in the United States, Everytown for Gun Safety reports that there are numerous cases of children accidentally shooting themselves or others.
In 2023, children were responsible for at least 411 unintentional shootings, making it the highest number recorded since Everytown began tracking in 2015. Everytown reported that the previous year saw 360 unintentional shootings by children, resulting in 136 fatalities.
According to Everytown, there have already been 21 accidental shootings this year, resulting in 11 fatalities.
