Alabama – In a recent incident in Alabama, a man and woman were arrested and charged with multiple charges, including first-degree assaults, animal crueity, and possession of a prohibited animal after their child found a firearm and accidentally shot himself.
The investigation revealed that the child had discovered a firearm at his family’s home in Alabama and tragically shot himself.
When responding officers arrived, the child’s parents, AIexander and Casandra, were already present. However, specific details of their statements to Alabama authorities have not been made public.
Staff at the hospital reportedly told investigators that they heard the parent yelling at him and making statements like ‘this is what happens when you play with firearms.’
The investigation began when deputies responded to a hospital after a child arrived with gunshot wounds to his arm and leg.
When asked what had happened, the child reportedly told Alabama authorities that ‘he got shot by a gun.’
Law enforcement officers quickly obtained a search warrant for the family home. During the search, they reportedly discovered illegal drugs and several unsecured firearms scattered throughout the house.
They also discovered about three dozen reptiles (snakes) and one crocodile. The reptiles were kept in aquariums inside the house, alongside live and dead animals.
The crocodile was found swimming in a tank in the bathroom. It is illegal to keep a crocodile as a pet in a private home, and wildlife officials have since seized the reptiles.
The house also reportedly lacked running water and functional restrooms.
The parents informed investigators that they were at home when they heard the gunshot. They rushed to the boy and discovered him suffering from his injuries.
In order to stop the bleeding, they used a belt as a makeshift tourniquet and drove him to the hospital in their truck. He was then airlifted to a children’s hospital for additional treatment.
Both the mother and father agreed to speak with investigators from the sheriff’s office. During the interview, the mother expressed her fear that the state of Alabama would take away her children.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and Alabama authorities are gathering all relevant facts to determine the appropriate legal proceedings.
At this time, no additional information about the investigation’s specifics or the couple’s statements to responding officers has been released.
This incident demonstrates the critical importance of firearm safety, particularly in homes with children.
Proper firearm storage and handling can help avoid tragic accidents and ensure the safety of all household members.
