Miami-Dade Man Faces Charges After 3-Year-Old Relative Shoots Herself
A distressing incident unfolded in southwest Miami-Dade as a 3-year-old child named Serenity accidentally shot herself while in the care of a 23-year-old man named Orlando Young.
Orlando Young has been arrested and charged with child neglect with bodily harm, as outlined in court documents.
The Incident at a Family Residence
The incident occurred at a residence on SW 220th Terrace where Young was staying with family members on Sunday, September 24.
Young had been entrusted with the care of Serenity, who was visiting her paternal grandmother’s house on that fateful day.
He had taken on the responsibility of preparing breakfast for the young girl and was watching over her throughout the day.
Momentary Lapse Leads to Tragic Consequences
According to the arrest report, Orlando Young admitted that while he was engrossed in watching a football game, he “momentarily left his gun unattended on the couch because he was excited about a touchdown.”
It was during this brief lapse in supervision that the toddler found the unsecured firearm and tragically shot herself.
The entire incident was captured by surveillance video.
Toddler’s Injury and Subsequent Medical Care
Upon hearing a “loud bang,” Young rushed to the scene and observed blood coming from the child’s hand.
Serenity was immediately transported to Homestead Hospital and subsequently transferred to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital for surgery on her hand, according to officials.
Account of the Toddler
In their investigation, police spoke to Serenity about the incident. She revealed that she had discovered the gun on the couch and had been playing with it.
Tragically, she accidentally discharged the firearm, injuring her right hand.
Mother’s Demand for Accountability
Serenity’s mother, Warnicia Williams, expressed her anger, sadness, and hurt in response to the incident.
She emphasized the severity of the situation, recounting that the gun had been aimed at her daughter’s chest, and it was Serenity’s hand that ultimately saved her life.
Williams is demanding accountability following the shooting.
Toddler’s Recovery
Despite the harrowing incident, Serenity has been released from the hospital and is reportedly in good spirits as she continues her recovery.
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