Alabama – In a recent incident in Alabama, a man and woman were arrested and charged with multiple charges, including first-degree assauIt, animaI crueIty, and possession of a prohibited animaI after their child found a firearm and accidentally shot himself. The investigation revealed that the child had discovered a firearm at the family home in Alabama and, tragically, shot himself.
Responding officers reported that the child’s parents, AIexander and Casandra, were present at the scene when they arrived. However, specific details regarding their statements to the Alabama authorities have not been publicly disclosed. While at the hospital, staff reportedly told investigators that they heard the parent yelling at him making statements ‘this is what happens when you play with firearms.’
The investigation process began after deputies responded to a hospital after a child arrived with gunshot wounds to his arm and leg. When questioned about what had happened, the child reportedly told authorities in Alabama that ‘he got shot by a gun.’
Law enforcement quickly obtained a search warrant for the family home. During their search, they reportedly found illegal drugs and several unsecured firearms scattered around the home. They also uncovered approximately three dozen reptiles (snaakes) and a crocodiIe. The reptiles were kept in aquariums within the house, with both live and dead animaIs housed in the same enclosures.
The crocodiIe was found swimming in a tank located in the bathroom. It is illegal to keep a crocodiIe as a pet in a private residence, and wildlife officials have since taken custody of the reptiles. The home also reportedly had no running water and no operational bathroom facilities.
The parents told investigators that they were at the home when they heard the gunshot. They rushed to the boy and found him suffering from his injuries. In an effort to stop the bleeding, they applied a belt as a makeshift tourniquet and transported him to the hospital in their truck. He was later airlifted to a children’s hospital for further treatment.
Both the mother and father (SEE PHOTO) agreed to speak with investigators at the sheriff’s office. During the interview, the mother expressed her fear, stating that she was terrified the state of Alabama would take her children away.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and Alabama authorities are working to gather all pertinent facts to determine the appropriate legal proceedings. At this time, no further information has been released regarding the specifics of the investigation or any statements made by the couple to the responding officers.
This incident underscores the critical importance of firearm safety, especially in homes with children. Proper storage and handling of firearms can prevent tragic accidents and ensure the safety of all household members.
