ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. — An 8 year old girl is expected to survive after she was accidentally shot Thursday afternoon, March 12th, while handling an unsecured firearm inside a residence, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
The Combined Communications Center received a 911 call just before 5 p.m. reporting that a child had been shot in the neck. Deputies with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Alachua County Fire Rescue responded to the scene.
When first responders arrived, they located an 8 year old girl suffering from a single gunshot wound to the neck. Despite the seriousness of the injury, authorities said the child was conscious and alert while deputies and rescue personnel began providing medical aid.
Deputies quickly worked to block intersections and clear traffic along the route to UF Health Shands Hospital to allow for rapid transport to the trauma center.
Authorities said the child is expected to survive.
Detectives and forensic investigators responded to the residence to determine how the shooting occurred. During the investigation, officials learned the child was visiting a family member at the home while the homeowner was out of town.
Investigators said another family member had been staying at the residence to house sit. While inside the home, the child and another juvenile went upstairs into a bedroom where they located an unsecured firearm.
Authorities determined the children began handling the weapon when it discharged, striking the 8 year old girl.
Officials said the homeowner lives alone and does not have children and was unaware that children would be visiting the residence while away.
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities said the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of properly securing firearms, particularly when others may have access to a home.
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