VERNAL, Utah, Jan. 26, 2018 (Gephardt Daily) — A 4-year-old Vernal boy is in the hospital with critical injuries after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials say.
According to information from the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office, the boy was in his home Thursday morning when he climbed a shelf unit in a closet, and gained access to a loaded handgun.
Investigators believe the child discharged the gun, shooting himself in the chest. Another family member called emergency crews, which were on scene within minutes, the UCSO statement says.
The boy was transported by ground ambulance to Ashley Regional Medical Center, where he received initial treatment before being flown by medical helicopter to a hospital in Salt Lake City.
As of Thursday night, the boy was in stable condition. The investigation is ongoing.
“Our thoughts are with the child and his family as we hope and pray for a full recovery,” the sheriff’s statement says.
