Authorities in Westmoreland County say a man and woman have been charged in connection to the accidental shooting of a 4-year-old boy in Rostraver Township.
Investigators say in July, police were called to a home for reports that the child had shot himself with a handgun.
Police say the child was flown to UPMC Children's Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery.
Authorities note that the child has since received "constant" medical care.
“This was a tragic and unacceptable shooting that ultimately could have and should have been prevented. There is one simple solution to prevent these types of incidents from happening, and it is to store your firearms in a safe and secure location," said District Attorney Nicole W. Ziccarelli.
Police say following their months-long investigation, charges of child endangerment and reckless endangerment have been filed against Laura Steele and Michael Lynn.
Detectives say that the handgun used in the shooting was reportedly kept on the floor, in the bedroom of the home, and was unsecured and loaded.
Authorities say both Steele and Lynn were reportedly at the residence at the time of the shooting and told police that they heard a "pop" prior to finding the child bleeding on the floor.
“This little boy will likely have to live with this painful reminder for the rest of his life. While we know we cannot prevent every crime, we have to find a way to protect our most vulnerable."
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