UPDATED: Smyrna, TN - On Monday (August 15, 2022), Smyrna Police responded to a call in regards to a 5-year-old child accidentally discharging a handgun at the basketball court in Lee Victory Recreation Park. First responders arrived on the scene and rendered aid to the minor child. However, the injury sustained was fatal.
Smyrna investigators have since determined the father to be the owner of the firearm. The child evidently retrieved the firearm from the father’s backpack, according to police.
WGNS asked Smyrna Public Information Officer Jim Garbee if charges are going to be filed against the child’s father, Garbee told WGNS NEWS, "The Town of Smyrna follows state law regarding possession of firearms in public recreation areas (TCA §39-17-1311). Further information will be provided, as available, upon conclusion of the police investigation."
In regards to the passing of the child on Monday, the Town of Smyrna released the following statement: On behalf of the Mayor, Town Council and the citizens of Smyrna, our deepest heartfelt condolences go out to the family in this devastating loss. “The death of a child is inconceivable and our hearts are shattered by this tragedy. The Smyrna community extends prayers of comfort and healing for all involved," stated Mayor Mary Esther Reed. We deeply appreciate the emergency personnel who responded to this tragedy. At this time the investigation is still active.
DISCLAIMER: All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The arrest records or information about an arrest that are published or reported on NewsRadio WGNS and www.WGNSradio.com are not an indication of guilt or evidence that an actual crime has been committed.
Previous News Story from Monday Night: A five-year-old was shot around 7:20PM Monday (8/15/2022) evening at the Lee Victory Recreation Park in Smyrna, TN. The shooting was believed to have been an accident, but Smyrna Police continue to investigate how the situation unfolded.
Witnesses say the child was shot in the area of the basketball courts. After the child was shot, the boy was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
As for the gun, police believe the firearm they recovered was the one that took the child’s life.
Based on multiple witness statements and evidence at the scene, it appears to be a tragic accident. However, the investigation is still ongoing.
Authorities are not releasing any further details at this time and the investigation remains active in Smyrna.
DISCLAIMER: All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The arrest records or information about an arrest that are published or reported on NewsRadio WGNS and www.WGNSradio.com are not an indication of guilt or evidence that an actual crime has been committed.
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