Boy, 5, finds gun before accidentally shooting himself dead in his own home

A five-year-old child has died after he got hold of an unattended gun and accidentally shot himself dead while he was at home.

The death of the boy, named Elijo Gonzalez, has shocked the local community in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US, and sparked discussions on gun safety on Tuesday night.

The Milwaukee police department urged parents to lock their guns and keep them out of reach of children.

The incident occurred on the evening of February 21, and two men, aged 35 and 58, were arrested for leaving a firearm unattended.

Gonzalez was transported to Children’s Wisconsin Hospital, where he died.

Sergeant Cornejo of the Milwaukee Police Department said that he has noted several similar instances in recent months, in a disturbing trend.

The local community in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US, has been left shocked (fox6)

He emphasised the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for gun owners to secure their firearms.

The sergeant suggested owners should use gunlocks and store firearms in safe areas, with the key kept in another area where a child cannot access it.

He said: “I can’t fathom any reason why this five-year-old should be dead. My heart aches for the families of all children hurt by gunfire.

"It’s just as simple as putting that gunlock on and storing it away in a safe area, with the key in another different area where a child cannot get a hold of it. That alone is, you know, vital, and can save a child’s life.

“We just need everyone to be a responsible gun owner and secure their firearm,” said Cornejo.

The tragic loss of Gonzalez's young life has saddened his community.

A neighbour, Margarita Arias Campa, remembered the little boy as a caring and sweet child who loved walking their dog.

“The child was very loving. He’d say, 'Can I come walk the dog with you guys?'” said Campa.

Elijo was a student at Seeds of Health, and the school released a statement expressing their condolences to his family and friends.

The five-year-old later died at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (fox6)

The statement read: “Elijo was a charismatic, energetic student who loved learning and was a source of joy to his family and friends.

Our sympathies go out to our families and the community as we deal with this loss.”

This unfortunate incident highlights the need for responsible gun ownership and the importance of keeping guns out of reach of children.

It also emphasizes the devastating impact that gun violence can have on families and communities, especially when children are involved.

Police stressed that it's essential for gun owners to take necessary precautions and ensure the safety of their children and those around them.