(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A 19-year-old from Grayslake was charged following what Vernon Hills police said was the accidental shooting of a 2-year-old girl on Friday afternoon.
Police initially thought they were responding to a call about a child who had been injured by fireworks, officials said.
The investigation, though, revealed that a loaded, semi-automatic pistol had been left on a bed. Police said it went off, and that’s when the 2-year-old was struck in the arm. Although officials don’t know how the gun fired, they said they believe the shooting was unintentional. The child was hospitalized.
Her injuries are serious but not considered to be life threatening, officials said.
The girl and her two older brothers, ages 3 and 6, were being watched by their 17-year-old aunt and her 19-year-old boyfriend, Joseph Hatchett. Hatchett, of Grayslake, has been charged with reckless conduct and endangering the life or health of a child.
He could face more charges, as the investigation is ongoing.
“This is a jarring reminder of why all gun owners must store their firearms in a safe and responsible manner,” said Vernon Hills Police Chief Patrick L. Kreis in a press release. “I encourage all members of the community to discuss gun safety with their children and all gun owners to re-commit themselves to the highest standards of safety.”
The 3-year-old and 6-year-old were taken from the home pending further investigation by the Department of Children and Family Services.
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