A boy, 1, has been accidentally shot by his own four-year-old brother with a pistol, it has been confirmed by police.
In a horrifying incident that unfolded in East Harris County, Texas, a 4-year-old boy "unintentionally" shot his one-year-old sibling after stumbling upon an unsecured firearm.
The incident occurred at around 4.25pm when the Harris County Sheriff's Office received distressing reports of a weapons disturbance.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said that the young boy had discovered an "unsecured pistol" within his house which tragically led to him accidentally firing the weapon and injuring his one-year-old brother.
The little brother was rushed to the hospital, where doctors assessed his injuries as non-life-threatening injuries. Providing further insight.
The children's father told KTRK-TV that the 4-year-old frequently plays with toy guns and was likely oblivious to the fact that he had come across a real, loaded firearm.
The children’s uncle told ABC7 that the gun belonged to a relative who was staying with the family.
Police officers have been questioning witnesses at the scene and urged the community to exercise utmost responsibility with firearms.
Saul Suarez said: "I want to take this time to remind the community to be responsible when it comes to weapons. Make sure that you're securing them, especially when there's children in the house."