A father from Pennsylvania, Luis Marin, was arrested in September 2024 after his two-year-old son accidentally shot himself with a loaded gun. The incident, which took place on May 15, 2024, prompted charges of felony Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Recklessly Endangering Another Person.
According to a press release from the Office of District Attorney, County of Montgomery, Marin was allegedly engrossed in his phone when the tragic incident occurred. He reportedly left the loaded gun on a bed, within easy reach of his young son. The toddler, completely unaware of the danger, picked up the gun and accidentally fired it, injuring himself.
The child sustained serious injuries, including broken ribs, a fractured scapula, and damage to his left lung. The proximity of the gun to his body when it was fired left a burn mark and stippling on his skin, a clear indication that the gun was pressed against his skin or very close to it during the discharge.
The child was immediately transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital for emergency medical attention. The hospital staff contacted the authorities, reporting the incident and the nature of the injuries sustained. The arrest of Marin highlights the crucial importance of responsible gun ownership and the dire consequences of leaving firearms accessible to young children. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened vigilance and awareness regarding gun safety in homes with young children.
