DETROIT (WWJ) -- Multiple felony charges have been filed against a Detroit man whose young nephew died after shooting himself in the head.
The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office on Thursday announced the case against 29-year old Keon Lavell Pritchett in connection with the tragic incident at a home in the 19740 block of Oakfield Street Monday night.
While some details remain under investigation, prosecutors allege that Pritchett left his handgun unsecured in the house. Just before 10:30 p.m., it's alleged that 5-year-old Carlin McDaniel found the gun, picked it up, and shot himself in head.
The child was taken to an area hospital where he died of his injuries.
Pritchett, who was in the home at the time of the shooting, has been charged with the following: One count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, one count of Felon in Possession – Ammunition, one count of Tampering with Evidence, and two counts of Felony Firearm.
He was scheduled to be arraigned in 36th District Court on Thursday.
Related
“Another child shot. Another few hours of temporary outrage. Another opportunity for meaningful reform ignored," said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, in a statement. "How many more times will it take for the outrage to be lasting and meaningful? Someone please let me know. Can we at least get some action on unsafe storage of guns? I have been asking for more than six years now."
Gun should always be kept locked and out of reach of children and/or secured in a locked safe if there is any chance there could be children in the home. Detroit residents can get gun locks free of charge from the Detroit Police Department. Check with your local precinct about availability.