A tragic incident unfolded outside a church when a three-year-old accidentally shot his two-year-old brother in the head with their father’s gun on Sunday, as per People. The police were called at River Valley Baptist Church in Morganton at around 8:26 p.m.
Following the distressing incident in the parking lot of River Valley Baptist Church in Morganton, North Carolina, toddler Daniel Vines, son of pastor Adam Vines, was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition after an evening service.
How did the horror take place?
Speaking to local news channel WCCB Charlotte, Pastor Adam Vines revealed that his three-year-old son, who remains unidentified, discovered the firearm inside the family’s van. Vines explained that the weapon was in a holster with the safety engaged. Despite this, a tragic accident occurred, as the three-year-old accidentally shot his younger brother.
Updated news reports point out that the injured child had improved after emergency surgery and is now reported to be in stable condition.
‘He’s stable now’
In an interview with 3 WBTV, Adam explained that the bullet went “behind his ear, but it went across the corner on the lower side instead of going through the brain. His talking, communications, his moving ability, all of that part is still intact.”
“He’s stable right now,” Adam informed the outlet. He also expressed his gratitude and called himself “lucky” that the damage wasn’t as severe as he initially feared.
Neighbour Teresa Jordan, who witnessed the church members gather around in the parking lot after the tragic incident, told WSOC-TV, “I feel for the family. It just breaks my heart. It shows you how quick your life can change.”