"Learn how to properly handle it": responsible gun ownership in wake of child shooting

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — On Friday, August 8, a 4-year-old boy died after accidentally shooting himself with a gun.

The incident occurred on the 900 block of North Fulbright Ave. at around 12:15 p.m. Officers responded to the scene, where the boy reportedly received CPR.

He was taken to a local hospital and was pronounced dead around 4 p.m.

The tragedy has led to discussion about responsible firearm use.

"If your gun is out and you're not educating your child on it or you're not warning them about the dangers of it, why are they around it?" said James Robertson, who lives near where the accident occurred. "People get complacent and comfortable and think nothing bad will happen, and then something bad happens."

As someone who has served in the army, Robertson says gun ownership is a right every American has, but emphasizes the importance of proper firearm training.

"Take a class, learn how to properly handle it, how to clean it, how to store it, where to store it, you know, all these other factors and variables that people should consider whenever they have to handle a firearm, especially at around kids."

Springfield Police Department recommends legal gun owners keep their firearms locked up and out of the hands of those who are not authorized or trained to use them.

SPS lists gun safety tips to help keep kids safe.