Texas County child shot by sibling

On the evening of March 22nd, Texas County Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Nagle Drive in the Elk Creek area for a report of a 9-year-old child with a gunshot wound. An investigation revealed that the victim was shot by a younger sibling. The children were playing outside the residence and gained access to a rifle in a parked vehicle. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by Texas County Coroner, Marie Lasater. All child deaths are subject to a full investigation. In addition to the law enforcement investigation, a child fatality review panel will examine the circumstances surrounding the death pursuant to Missouri statutes. That review panel consists of members from several different agencies. Texas County Sheriff, Scott Lindsey, says “There is nothing more tragic than the loss of a child.  I would ask that you join me in praying for comfort for those affected by this incident. This tragedy is also a reminder to all parents to examine hazards such as storage of firearms, or any other dangerous item, that children might have access to.”