Toddler dies after shooting himself with unattended gun

(WIS/Gray News) – A 3-year-old boy died Thursday after accidentally shooting himself with a gun, and his uncle is now facing charges, authorities said.

COLUMBIA, South Carolina — COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS/Gray News) – A 3-year-old boy died Thursday after accidentally shooting himself with a gun, and his uncle is now facing charges, authorities said.

The Columbia Police Department said the accident happened on Bailey Street near The Colony apartments.

Law enforcement received a call around 5:40 p.m., according to Deputy Chief Melron Kelly. “Richland County deputies responded to the scene,” Kelly said.

“Once arrived on scene, they found a toddler that had been struck by gunfire.” The child had a gunshot wound to the upper body and was taken to a local hospital, where he later died.