Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SANTAQUIN — A 5-year-old child died Thursday from what police say was an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Santaquin police responded to a home in the 700 block of Canyon Road at 2:19 p.m. where a young boy had suffered a gunshot wound to the head. The boy was in a back bedroom and had somehow found a 9 mm handgun and discharged it, said Santaquin Police Lt. Mike Wall.
The parents, who were in a different room at the time, rushed to the child after hearing the gunshot and "did what they could to try to save the child," Wall said. Emergency medical services arrived and attempted life-saving efforts, but the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
Wall said investigators do not suspect any foul play, calling it an accidental self-inflicted shot. The investigation is ongoing to discover how the child got ahold of the gun.
Other siblings live at the residence but were not home at the time, he said.
The boy's name has not yet been released. But on Friday, his family members, identifying themselves as the Wilson and Hunsaker families, released a statement that said they "experienced an unimaginable tragedy, losing a cherished member who will be deeply missed."
"However, through our faith in Jesus Christ, we will get through this trial, as we feel his love so abundantly. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who responded and to the community for their overwhelming support and compassion. This heartbreaking incident has taught us difficult lessons, and we deeply regret that it unfolded this way," the statement says.
"Our hearts are shattered, and we hope that our family's loss serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly life can change. We hope this tragedy serves as a reminder for others to take every precaution to ensure the safety of their children. As we come together to grieve, we kindly ask for privacy during this difficult time as we mourn the loss of our beloved little boy," the statement said.
