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A 3-Year-Old Boy Dies After Accidental Shooting Near Bartow Burger King
Investigators said the child grabbed a handgun while his father struggled to pay for dinner, and no arrests have been announced.
- A 3-year-old boy died Thursday evening after accidentally shooting himself inside a vehicle at a Bartow Burger King, according to the Polk County Sheriff. First responders transported him to Lakeland Regional Health, where he was pronounced dead at 7:30 p.m.
- The child's father, who moved from Connecticut four months ago, became distracted by a declined credit card at the drive-thru. While searching for payment, he removed his Glock handgun from his waistband and placed it on the vehicle seat.
- While playing in the backseat, the child—four days from his fourth birthday—grabbed the firearm and pulled the trigger. The father heard a 'loud pop' and a bystander immediately called 911.
- Sheriff Grady Judd explained that a culpable negligence statute applies, requiring consultation with the State Attorney before any legal action. The process mandates a seven-day waiting period before authorities can proceed.
- Judd stated his office currently lacks 'any energy at all for suggesting criminal charges' regarding the tragedy. State Attorney Brian Haas will ultimately decide how the investigation proceeds with the Bartow Police Department.
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Total News Sources11
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution78% Center
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources are Center
78% Center
11%
C 78%
11%
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