5-year-old boy dead after shooting at Lee Victory Park in Smyrna
A 5-year-old boy was killed Monday night after retrieving his father's gun from a backpack while the family was at Lee Victory Recreational Park in Smyrna, a town spokesperson said.
The incident happened around 7:20 p.m. Monday near the basketball courts at Lee Victory Park. First responders attempted to revive the child on the scene.
The child was transported to StoneCrest Medical Center in Smyrna where he was later pronounced dead, said Jim Garbee, a spokesperson for the town of Smyrna.
"Based on multiple witness statements and evidence at the scene, at this time it appears to be a tragic accident," Garbee said.
The Smyrna Police Department has not released the victim's name.
The Smyrna Town Council issued heartfelt condolences to the family over the loss.
"The death of a child is inconceivable and our hearts are shattered by this tragedy," said Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed. "The Smyrna community extends prayers of comfort and healing for all involved."
Tennessee prohibits the possession of a firearm in or on the grounds of any public park, playground, civic center or other municipal building. The misdemeanor law prescribes a maximum penalty of 11 months, 29 days and a fine not to exceed $2,500 for carrying weapons on or in a public recreational property.
The case is still under investigation. Currently no charges have been made.
This is a developing story.
Reach reporter Nancy DeGennaro at degennaro@dnj.com.
This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Shooting at Lee Victory Park in Smyrna kills 5-year-old boy
