Police: 3-year-old boy shoots himself in hand with father’s gun

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – Police in Tennessee say a 3-year-old boy shot himself in the wrist after getting a hold of his dad’s gun Tuesday evening.

An investigation into the shooting began after officers were flagged down by the boy’s father around 6 p.m.

Authorities learned 3-year-old Treyvon Tyson was injured in the shooting.

Officers responded to the home and retrieved a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol from inside.

24-Hour News 8’s sister station, WKRN, said the weapon belongs to the child’s father, 24-year-old Tevin Tyson, who is a licensed security guard and has a handgun carry permit.

Tyson told officers he and Treyvon had both placed their backpacks on the floor of the apartment when he asked his son to retrieve clothing from his (the child’s) backpack. Tyson said he then heard a gunshot.

According to officials, the father patrols apartment complexes and his company requires guards buy their own guns for the job.

Captain Mike Hagar said the child’s injuries are not life-threatening. He was transported to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital for treatment and was released early Wednesday morning.

The investigation is ongoing. The case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office to determine if charges should be filed.

The Department of Children’s Services is involved and investigating.

The Safe Tennessee Project said this is the 16th child shot accidentally so far this year.