UPDATE: Sheriff: 4-Year-Old Shoots Teen Babysitter for Stepping on Foot
UPDATE: Sheriff: 4-Year-Old Shoots Teen Babysitter for Stepping on Foot Save Email Print
Posted: 11:43 AM Jan 5, 2009
 Last Updated: 7:59 PM Jan 6, 2009
 Reporter: Randy Yohe
Email Address: randy.yohe@wsaz.com
223 comments
A | A | A

Update at 6 p.m. Tuesday
JACKSON, Ohio (WSAZ) -- A child's game of cops and robbers took a tragic twist, according to the father of a 4-year-old boy who shot his babysitter with a shotgun.

William Crisp is fighting to keep his son from state custody while a prosecutor decides on possible criminal charges.

Crisp and Jackson County Sheriff's deputies agree that the single buckshot blast from the old 20-gauge shotgun could have been much worse. The 17-year-old male babysitter sustained an arm wound during the incident.

"He's fine," Crisp said. "His arm will be fine. He's not pressing charges."

Jackson County Chief Sheriff's Deputy Jim Ephlin said, "He's lucky. "If it was a deer slug, he could have been severely injured or killed."

The babysitter and another teen were watching three younger children Sunday night at a rural mobile home just outside of Jackson. That's when all agree that the babysitter accidentally stepped on the 4-year-old boy's foot, and he responded.

"They didn't know he was going to grab a real gun," Crisp said. "It shocked everybody."

Crisp is terrified that Children's Services will take his son away for what he insists was a freak accident.

Crisp said his son picked up the shotgun shell from a living room drawer and got the gun from a rear closet. He said the babysitter assumed the little boy was going for one of his many toy guns.

"He did not intend to hurt or kill him," Crisp said.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jonathan Blanton said he can't imagine filing assault charges against a 4-year-old child.

"There's no place to put a 4 year old, but we may file charges against the adults," he said.

But Crisp said he's not guilty of child endangerment.

"I"ve taught my son to respect guns," he said. "It was a pure accident."

Crisp said Children's Services insists that his son get counseling. He said the agency also is ordering him to get any gun -- real or toy -- along with any saw, hammer, nails -- anything active -- out of the home for good.

Original story
JACKSON, Ohio (WSAZ) -- Deputies say a bizarre shooting Sunday night involved a 4-year-old wielding a shotgun.

The Jackson County, Ohio, Sheriff says some teenagers were babysitting some younger children in a mobile home just outside Jackson.

The police report says a 4-year-old got angry after 18-year-old Nathan Beavers stepped on his foot.

The reports say the boy then went into a back room, loaded a shell in a 20-gauge shotgun, came out and shot Beavers in the arm. The babysitter was hospitalized, but the injury was not life-threatening.

Another teen was also hit with shotgun pellets.

The sheriff says possible violations include aggravated assault against the 4-year-old, and child endangerment against the babysitting victim. Right now, the sheriff is not sure yet if anyone will be charged.

[ Copyright 2009 – WSAZ.com. All Rights Reserved. ]
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Severe Weather and Breaking News Coverage

To send a news tip or submit a story idea, e-mail news@wsaz.com

More Stories
Nitro Residents Upset Over No Thru Traffic Road Sign

Floyd County Course Renewed

Search for Missing St. Albans Man

BREAKING NEWS: AP:Sarah Palin Resigning as Governor this Month

 BREAKING NEWS: Toddler Shot, Mother Charged with Neglect

Longtime Huntington Sports Writer Dies

River City Rockin'

Let the Games Begin
Post Your Comments
First Name:
Location:
Enter Comments: characters left
Email (optional):
By posting this comment I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy:
You must agree to the Terms of Service to continue.
Read Comments
Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
Posted by: crystal on May 2, 2009 at 12:20 PM
My first question when i read this was Why in the heck does a 4 year old know where the gun and amo are kept UNLOCKED, and second, Why does this 4 year old know how to load and fire it? Smart parenting.....
Posted by: nicolle on Mar 31, 2009 at 10:05 AM
The father should also be charged!!! How on earth does a 4 yo. get a hold of a shotgun soo easily...anyways? Where's the responsibility come in for the father of the 4 yo.?
Posted by: stna on Jan 23, 2009 at 10:05 AM
heres the thing all of us teens are suffering and to let u all no u need to look at how many kids u here about shooting guns me and my boyfriend are truely sorry about what went on and what we said is the true wen u didnt see u really cant judge us
Posted by: Vince on Jan 15, 2009 at 08:05 PM
How is this an accident? The child found the gun, the ammunition,, then LOADED it before shooting the sitter. Teaching him to respect guns, and he doesn't keep his SECURED and away from children? The very fact that this guy still has his son is a travesty. Children act on what they're taught. The authorities need to -seriously- take a very long, very intense look at this case.
Posted by: melissa king on Jan 12, 2009 at 11:43 PM
TO CANDY:im soo glad someone told the REAL story. yes they were teasing the child about a old man .saying the child was his girlfriend had him crying and then played a game where they stomped one anothers feet. of course the older boys hurt him! the dad knew how they were to him, he doesnt even have custody of the child!
Posted by: odd on Jan 12, 2009 at 01:30 PM
Am I the only one who finds this story odd?I don't see how a 4 year old could have done this.If he did where is the bruises from shooting the gun?Something dont add up.
Posted by: mad as heck on Jan 12, 2009 at 12:13 AM
wow i can not believe it got posted i am hoping the little boy gets the help he needs but some one else needs to step in cause if you leave it up to the dad the little boy will not get him the help he needs i thought the grandma has guardian of the litte boy well if she does why is the father involved i am just curious is there littler kids around if so god keep your eye on them dont let the dad teach them anything....where is the mom well i hope and i pray for the little boy
Posted by: Devastator MBT on Jan 10, 2009 at 11:08 PM
To the smart mouth who wisecracked about the NRA here, the focus should on helping this child to live better; not some agenda.
Posted by: mad as heck on Jan 10, 2009 at 04:11 PM
i have left alot of comments on here and they have none been posted and why i dont know i just told the truth on here just like everyone else has the father is a piece of crap he does not need to be called daddy the kid does not need to be raised by that animal lets c if this gets posted
Posted by: Amazed on Jan 9, 2009 at 08:27 PM
Are the Children Service Workers afraid the child might go off again and nail them up in a wooden box or something? They're crazy... Get the child into counseling and the father into a child safety class... and find out what the babysitter was doing ... because it apparently wasn't babysitting.
Posted by: what a joke. on Jan 9, 2009 at 01:54 PM
this gun was not fired by a 4 year old. guns have a kick back. why didn't this kid have any bruises or whatever? he most certainly should have.
Posted by: 1,2,3 its Just Me!?!?! on Jan 9, 2009 at 12:57 AM
Here's my opinion...1. The gun should have been at the very least UP and out of the reach of the child! 2. The father in this situation must be doing something right (if it happened as told) or else he would have been a target because you know DAD has made the 4 year old mad and he hasn't been shot! 3. The 'babysitter' was not watching the kid if he got a shotgun shell out of the living room right in front of a room full of people then loaded it into a gun and shot it! 4. If I had to guess I would imagine drugs were involved here! 5. To the sheriff for even considering trying to charge a 4 year old get a life! 6. To Children Services expecting this young man to get rid of saws, hammers, nails, and whatever else you said, open your mouth and insert foot! 7. To you heartless people saying this kid needs jerked out of his home and placed in foster care please stomp your keyboard and sell you computer for scrap! ** Guns and 4 year olds don't mix well kinda like pouring gas on a fire BOOM!
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:49 PM
dont hit kids..seriously, they have guns now!
Posted by: Me on Jan 8, 2009 at 01:01 PM
If the babysitter was supposed to be babysitting, where was he at when the little boy went into another room long enough to load a gun?
Posted by: Just wondering on Jan 8, 2009 at 12:42 PM
where are the NRA nuts on this board? They're always on here spewing how everyone should be armed, obviously a long way from the truth.
Posted by: Heather on Jan 8, 2009 at 11:49 AM
Well hopefully CPS will do their jobs in Ohio (unlike West Virginia) and pull the kid (and other children if there are) out of the house.
Posted by: ann on Jan 8, 2009 at 10:21 AM
I believe the child ment to do what he did, he should get counseling for a long time,he has anger issues,take all the stuff out that childrens services said to and make sure it is locked away from the child,next time choose better sitters,
Posted by: OH WOW on Jan 8, 2009 at 10:00 AM
I believe they need to question the teenagers I dont believe the little 4 year old could have done this cause if he has he would be really buises up I believe the teenagers done it and now blaming the little boy to keep their self out of trouble double check everything and really do your job the cops just dont check things out very good I know how a 20 gauge kick so I just dont believe a little 4 year old could have done it.
Posted by: Kim on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:47 AM
Why did that child have easy access to a shotgun!? Why was it not locked up? Why was the gun loaded!!!! I have a shotgun and it is locked away with the key nowhere for my son to find. Next, why wasn't the babysitter watching this child closer? Does anyone else think it's odd for a child to react this way to someone stepping on his foot?? It's a very extreme reaction, agreed? The child, along with his parents need to be mentally evaluated. Who doesn't teach their child to 1)never touch guns without adult supervision 2)never play with guns 3)never point a gun at someone 4)Respect/mannerisms. I still can't get over how this child reacted to getting his foot stepped on. Even if this child is mentally disabled, one should extra effort into teaching the rights and wrongs of situations. Parents are completely responsible for the actions of this child. I can only imagine what this child will grow up to be like with the little guidance that he is given now.
Posted by: Brett on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:29 AM
So is the child going to be punished by the parents or not? Maybe they could take away his toy guns for starters. I just hope the child learns something from this.
Posted by: Mike on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:58 AM
How about some anger management for the kid? Getting your foot stepped on and then try to shoot them, sounds like he's got a little devil inside.
Posted by: Geeez! on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:59 PM
So this is teaching the child that it is ok to shoot someone...The parents need to wake up-next time it may be them getting shot. I would hate to see what kind of person he grows up to be!
Posted by: taco on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:22 PM
This is a prime example of why some people shouldn't have children or guns. So sad.
Posted by: Amazed? on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:13 PM
The child should be taken into custody due to the unsuitable living conditions. The house is filthy. I would not let a dog live in that house.
Posted by: mamawof6kids on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:56 PM
If everything in this story is exactly as reported, there are several issues that need to be addressed. This was definitely child endangerment. The father should have been ordered to remove all weapons from the home. And that includes the bow also in the same closet as the shotgun. Childen watch, thats how they learn. How can the father say he taught his son respect for guns if he doesn't respect them himself. How can he if he handles a gun the way he does. Also the child has an anger issue and this needs to be addressed. Where were the parents this night and why were three childen left with these teenage boys. This just doesn't sound like the whole story to me. The father definitely needs to take responsibilty for his and his son's actions. This was no accident.
Posted by: john on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:52 PM
stupid,stupid and more stupid. the cps,some people's comments and the parents for not locking up the gun in a safe place. this was an unfortunate event that could've been prevented by the parents,the so called baby sitter and any other older person present at the time. wanting the cps to come in and take the child is ridiculous. taking hammers and nails,saws and other tools away for good is totally ludicrous. what do you do when repairs are needed call cps to do it,not hardly,they are only interested in the bonus money they get for taking a child away from parents and putting them with other people that are only interested in the foster parent money they get. attempted murder charges? please!!!!!!!!!!!! i do hope a valueable lesson was learned though.
Posted by: Chris on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:31 PM
The baby sitter should have been watching the child closer the parents was not home! How can he be responsible when he was gone! And as far as kids and guns I think it is a child by child decision some kids develop faster than others and might be able to hunt and know about guns at 4 as my son was. However some kids couldn't be trusted with a cap gun at the age 15! THE BABYSITTER SHOULD HAVE BEEN WATCHING THE CHILD.
Posted by: Chris on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:31 PM
I was lucky to grow up with guns all my life and had a responsible father that taught me alot.Times have changed alot since then.Being a dad now,I still have alot of interest in guns but I have noticed that my son gets mad,he gets his toy guns and and acts like he wants to shoot me.I immediately put a stop to this. If kids think that they can use a toy gun to get revenge,what will keep them from getting the real thing. My son has several disabilitys that changes his situation,but I refuse to allow the real guns to be around him.During the summer, I will allow him to shoot a bb gun as long as I am in direct contact with him and able to teach him the proper safety, But when he starts showing his aggresion ,the gun is put up for along time till he shows responsibility.Please don't let kids use even toy guns when the show any type of aggresion.
Posted by: ohio on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:15 PM
i will agree with a few of u all when the dad was on tv he acted like nothing has happened and the lil boy was smiling does this kid live with the grandma well where was she when they interviewed the kid was she that embarased to been seen on national tv well she probaly would of done better than dad he showed no remorse maybe she doesnt either this kid needs more than therapy he needs a good ole fashion whoopin but no dad thinks it is ok my son was just protecting himself no way that is not how it goes does he have brother or sisters littler than him i hope not this is so sad that they think this is ok and smiling there is nothing to smile about get a grip on your child dad says a freak accident no it wasnt dad should never taught the kid to load a gun in fact i dont believe he loaded it and if the sheriff dept does there job they will find out the truth do some investagating jackson co.dont let it go that easy take control
Posted by: oh my on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:00 PM
My husband and I, as well as most of our family members are avid outdoorsmen and women. My four kids have been raised around guns, just as we were. Proper respect and learning has always been taught. All guns are out of reach and out of touch. All are stored in the attic where no one can reach. My neace came over one day after we had just come home from hunting. We hadn't been home long enough to put them away. She is never allowed to see guns or be near them. She kept asking what the gun was to my five year old. He explained to her that it was a real gun and she wasn't allowed to touch it and he immediately came to get me. At that point I put the guns away. I sat down and explained to my child he did exactly what he was supposed to do. His response was "duh" it isn't a toy and she could get killed. My boys don't even point toy guns at people. Not even my three year old. Educate your kid. Don't hide them from it. Obviously this kid wasn't educated about safety.
Posted by: You People on Jan 7, 2009 at 03:24 PM
The father needs to be punished as well as the child. To the people that let your children play with guns, you need serious help!!! Don't be sad when they grow and become murderers!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Amy on Jan 7, 2009 at 03:15 PM
If you had really taught your son to have respect for guns and what they can do, he would have NEVER went after it. Admit that you taught him how to load and shoot a weapon but you never taught him not to do so in anger or with malicious intent. Just admit you're an idiot and have no clue how to teach children to be around guns, then go take a class on how to be a parent.
Posted by: Stay at Home Mommy on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:11 PM
When I heard this story on the news last it scared me to death! First of all I am a mother of a 3 year old son, who often target shoots with my husband and I. He has several guns of his own. We have always tought him gun safty. What I want to know is why this shotgun and shells were not locked up? I am a firm beliver that we have the right to bear arms but when you neglect to do so in a safe manner I think that right should be took away. Its things like this that will take this right away from all of us. Shame on this boys parents!
Posted by: Theory on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:02 PM
After much thought about this...I had a revelation...I believe this was done so the "victim" can collect the money from the state when there is a victim of "violence"....I do believe I have figured it out......I'll bet this had been discussed and the victim was the only one brave (haha) enough to be the one to get shot..they were all going to split the money....man I should have been on CSI
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:39 PM
I cannot believe some of the comments I am reading. The father is making excuses; the child is smiling. This is not FUNNY, and the fact that the father is calling this an "accident", indicates to me that he is not ready to raise a child. If you believe some of the comments and the sitter deliberately hurt the child, then there is an additional issue of the parent not having a responsible person looking after his child, not to mention teaching (or showing) a child to react with violence. First, the father should look up the meaning of accident; if he can spell it, and can read, he will see that in no way was this act an accident. I'm sure if he gets angrey and hits his wife, that's an "accident" also. If a child will do something like this at age 4, what will he do when he gets angry as a teenager? The parents should be responsible for this, and, the child needs help. This is a good example of why there should be gun control. This is why we have children killing children.
Posted by: scott jenkins on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:35 PM
im sorry but i just dont see a 4 year old loading a sigle shot shot gun by his self and being able to shoot someone i say no way this story is of the truth my 9 year old cant even load a gun and shoot it let alone a 4 year old sorry but i say one of the teens are to blame not the child or the parents
Posted by: Jim J on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:07 PM
Oh come on people, locking up anyone or charging anyone will solve nothing. Send them all to a gun safety course and demand thae guns be locked in a safe or trigger locked and have child safety services follow up every 2 months. I am sure no one intended this to happen and breaking up a family will cure nothing!! Enough of that out there already!!
Posted by: Sue on Jan 7, 2009 at 12:47 PM
I'm sure the babysitters don't want to press charges because then when the story comes out they will be charged with endangering or neglect of a minor for hurting him by smashing his foot and teasing him
Posted by: dave on Jan 7, 2009 at 12:06 PM
A 4 year-old child with a really dangerous weapon...Fantastic! Sounds like the child has an amazing enviroment in which to grow and learn. Seriously, however, CPS really needs to step in and take control of the situation-since obviously the parents do not know what they're doing when it comes to the children that have been entrusted to them. It scares me...
Posted by: Bill on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:54 AM
There is no permit required for a shotgun.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:35 AM
explain to me how a 4 yr old child knows how to open a shotgun, load the shell into it correctly, be able to close the gun back, and how to aim to shoot someone. he shouldnt even know where the gun or shells are. i'm sorry, the blame lies on the parents. a 4 year old should not have THAT MUCH knowledge of a shotgun. he should only know that it is a dangerous weapon, and not a toy.
Posted by: Jessica on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:12 AM
My son is two and owns two guns...granted, he doesn't know how to load or shoot them, but, he will by the age of 4...there is nothing wrong with that...he knows Daddy and Mommy shoot deer to put food on the table, and he knows he will one day too. That is exciting for him. The ammo and gun should have been locked, yes...that is the parent's fault. However, you can't blame them for the child's actions completely...look at what is offered for children to watch on TV or play in video games. He could have picked that up from there!! All behaviors are learned, whether it thru parents, siblings, neighbors, TV, video games, etc. I do think that someone should look more closely at what the 18 year old was doing to this child though, it is strange, regardless of the fact the gun and ammo was readily available, that hte child automatically went for a gun for "accidentally stepping on his foot." I think something more is going on here...
Posted by: look again on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:53 AM
if the baby's foot was blue then he should be checked to see if he has any other bruises. I know the babysitter did it, but if I was the dad and that was true, I would be mad and file charges against him. Where is the mother?
Posted by: postalworker on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:33 AM
I can't believe what some of the people write in these comments. Not everybody knows the full story that comments, but feels like they should put their two cents in anyways. We should just pray for the people involved and pray for this country. If we don't put God back in this country, we are in more trouble than you could imagine.
Posted by: Mandy on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:21 AM
I think that the parents should be charged with endangerment because the kid shouldn't have had a chance to use the gun it should have been locked up.
Posted by: Jim on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:46 AM
First of all, Randy, this was not buckshot. The deputy makes that clear in his statement; it is birdshot which is much smaller than buckshot and that is evident by the size of the holes in the cabinet and refrigerator. Also, this particular single shot shotgun appears to be a youth model which is shorter and lighter than a full size model. My little brother had one just like it many years ago and they still make them. To those of you who think it impossible for a four year old to have done this, apparently you are not aware of how determined and resourcful a child of this age can be. To the father of this boy, son this was no accident. Your son intentionally got the shotshell from the desk and the gun from the closet and pointed the weapon as best he could and then pulled the trigger. You have some work to do as a father. It is your responsibility to teach him that such an action is very wrong. You might want to consider what you have been letting him watch on t.v. or video games.
Posted by: AJ on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:34 AM
A 4 yr old child should have no knowledge on how to load any kind of weapon. i dont believe the child should really be punished after all he is only 4 but the parents should definately be charged due to the fact that they have evidently shown this child how to behave this way, why in the world would a child that young know so much about shooting a person. i think that is what law enforcement should be asking.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:40 AM
I think that everybody should just leave them alone because i think that a four year old might be able to do it...it just depends on the kid...and his dad should not have taught him to load and shot a gun!
Posted by: concerned on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:24 AM
the parents and child all need re-educated apparently and also, this child needs to be taught how to handle anger or else this will be the next child to show up at school, mad at someone, and shoot them as well.... situations like this need to be handled, not blown off...
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:19 AM
But Crisp said he's not guilty of child endangerment. "I"ve taught my son to respect guns," he said. "It was a pure accident." ^ ^^^^ apparently not Crisp because if you had, this wouldnt have happened and you wouldnt be where you are now.... also, kids are lil mirror images of their parents whether we like it or not.. so maybe you should show your *respect* for guns by locking the things up, dont you think? GEEEZ!
Posted by: a mommy on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:12 AM
OMG, i think that something should be done.. as a parent, they are responsible. this child is 4, why was a gun in his reach? why wasnt the gun locked up? this is pitiful and couldve been prevented and couldve been so much worse.... and the parents are taking this so lightly, if their are guns accessible to a 4 yr old in that home, it is not a safe place for a 4 yr old to be... this is where people fall short with raising children...people should take raising kids a little more serious.. for one, dont leave your kids with someone who taunts your kids and makes them angry enough to do this, 2, teach your children the seriousness of guns, 3, teach them responsibilities for their actions, 4 the parents should keep guns out of reach to show a child their own respect for weapons. i just think this whole situation is pitiful all the way to the parents thinking this is ok.. sad, sad world were living in..
Posted by: Bob on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:08 AM
I think it is funny that we dont want kids to learn to use guns but we do want our 18 year olds to go kill people in other countries to protect us.
Posted by: Larry on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:07 AM
"proper permit to own his gun". It was a single shot 20 gauge squirrel gun. Even the Messiah would not ban that gun...
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:53 AM
did you notice the bow in the closet on the news last night! lets leave that one unlocked too!
Posted by: Anon. on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:47 AM
Everyone keeps saying "Where are bruises from the gun kick?" I doubt this kid had the stock against his shoulder. I'd venture to say that a 20 gauge is too long for a 4 year old to properly hold. However, don't doubt the intelligence of a 4 year old..if they see how a shot gun is loaded, they can figure it out.....case in point
Posted by: coffeeadict on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:08 AM
the parents should be punished! the 4 yr old needs an ol' fashion "woopin"! this is totally the parent/parents fault. a 4 year old is only going to repeat what he/she has seen or heard from the parents!
Posted by: denise on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:54 AM
the child should be punished for this. if he isnt he will turn out like the parents and let HIS KID play with guns. charge the parents with attempted murder and see if they straighten up there act!
Posted by: CHAZ on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:18 AM
I KNOW THE GUYS WERE TAUNTING AND TEASING THE CHILD WHILE I WAS ON THE PHONE AND THAT BABYS FOOT WAS BLUE FROM BEING STOMPED, NOW THATS NOT COOL
Posted by: Vil on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:00 AM
Did Crisp have a proper permit to own this gun? I saw the interview and he feels no remorse for what his child did. Keeping any child in the hands of that man is just insane. And even if the child's foot was stepped on hard and he was taunted like candi claims, he's 4 and he shouldn't have the knowledge on how to shoot another human being. If that information is indeed correct then the father should lose custody for teaching his 4 year old how to load and shoot a gun and leaving him in the care of unfit babysitters.
Posted by: MrObvious on Jan 7, 2009 at 12:19 AM
"CPS ordering him to get any gun -- real or toy -- along with any saw, hammer, nails -- anything active -- out of the home for good." CPS is overreaching. They should tell him to LOCK UP his guns but telling him that he has to give up his guns is wrong. There are some really good secure gun cabinets and safes out there, buy one.
Posted by: Blue on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:57 PM
I have no problems with 4 year olds handling guns. Heck, some of them would probably do a better job enforcing the law than our current police force does. They haven't been corrupted by the political system yet.
Posted by: MD on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:25 PM
You people who are teaching your child to load a gun at 4 years old are totally nuts. Anyone who teaches a child how to load and shoot a gun really needs to have thier head examined, thats not smart.I can understand if people teach teenagers, due to hunting, as long as they have a respondsible adult there with them than thats ok but anyone who teaches kids under 12-13 to load and shoot a gun are nuts esp children under the age of 6-7.Now come on people granted we live in a very country hick like place but i know you people gotta be smart enough to know thats not the right thing to do, it's not smart.
Posted by: Ok on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:28 PM
I have 3 children each one has a gun the youngest was 4 when she got hers. She has shot it a couple of times. The thing is my kids KNOW that they are not allowed to mess with their gun unless they are with their father and only then are they allowed to touch them. The shells are all LOCKED with the only person with the key is my husband. Yes some people are responsible adults and yes some are very irresponsible. My children have also been taught the proper way to put safety locks on their guns and the keys to those are also with their father. My youngest is now 5 almost 6 and she still doesnt know how to load her gun her father does it for her. It may sound absurd but they also like hunting and that is why they have them no other reason at all and they were not taught to shoot at people. They know not point it at people either.
Posted by: Paul on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:21 PM
Ok! Since it a single shot shotgun I say the 4yr old may have been able to load it, but doubt he could have closed the barrel,aimed and fired. If the child had it against his shoulder then this child would have a significant bruise. If it wasn't up to his shoulder then I guarantee you his finger and arm would have been injured from the kick. The shotgun would have fired and flew back out of his hand with his finger still on the trigger. I grew up in a hunting family with many shotguns and we knew not to touch them. This child needs some serious re-education on firearms. This no discipline thats been going on since paddeling was stopped in schools has ruined the children today (including my own children, but I do the best to raise them and teach them right from wrong regardless of what they see others do.) If this child has no bruising then the police need to check out one of the others in the house. I still don't think the 4yr old could have loaded and shot the babysitter.
Posted by: * on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:16 PM
Guya this is insane, what's happening in this world....4 year olds...???
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:41 PM
Why did they not have the guns locked up, and why does the child know how to load and shoot a gun in the first place?
Posted by: disgusted reader on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:40 PM
why in the world do kids that young know that much about a gun. i understand protecting yourself, but maybe in a different way than teaching them to SHOOT someone!! that's why our youth is the way they are these days...this really makes me sigh..............why wasn't the "gun" locked up????????????? where oh where has all the smart people gone?
Posted by: Melissa on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:37 PM
This story is very sad...4 year olds should be playing with toys, not guns! Who teaches a 4yr old to load a gun and shoot it? Grow up people and let these kids be kids, if you wanna teach them about guns then do it when they are older, not when they are just a baby!! This childs parents should be held accountable for what he did!! Someone could have died!!
Posted by: candi on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:30 PM
what wasnt told was he grinded the childs foot into the floor when he accidently" stepped on it" and they had teased the child about having a crush on a older man. what would you do?seriously..what would a person do?
Posted by: WVMom on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:29 PM
My goodness!The parents should be charged here! A four year old should not have access to guns and ammo.The toddler was imitating what he has seen.Whoever showed him how to do this is the responsible party!My son played with toy guns but real guns were not at his disposal. No child should be shown how to load a gun until he is old enough to understand the consequences of acting irresonsibly.In our area a little brother shot and killed his brother and they were playing.Imagine the tragedy of that!A smart and responsible gun owner keeps his weapons locked away from children with child locks or gun cabinets or safes, while keeping the ammo locked up tight as well.They then teach their child the proper way to handle a gun.This child didn't learn this on his own.Of course you can't charge a baby.Where were the parents?There is more to this story.
Posted by: P on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:29 PM
I don't think the parents should be charged with anything, sounds like a freak accident to me. I DO NOT think that Children's Services should require them to take the guns out of the home, however they should lock them up and/or a trigger lock.
Posted by: Beth Ann on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:20 PM
This is so crazy. Lock up the guns, they are lucky no one got killed.I don't think the teenagers are to blame. I also don't think that the child should be removed from the home.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:12 PM
lock the whole bunch up !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: oh my on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:47 PM
oh my oh my... you guys all think the kid had the gun against his shoulder... Amazing... Most of you probably don't realize that he could definitely do it and common sense is enough to break down, load, pull the hammer, and squeeze the trigger. I am certain that in order for him to hold that gun, he wasn't aiming. He had to have the gun under his arm so that he can reach the trigger. Shooting the gun in that fashion won't leave a bruise. I own the same exact gun and have since I was little. If this father has to get rid of his guns so that he can keep his kid, their are a lot of people in this world that need to get rid of their guns too.
Posted by: Sherry on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:42 PM
Why in God's name would you show a 4 year old how to load a gun? And why was the gun within the easy reach of a child? It should have been in a locked cabinet. Some people should never be allowed to even have kids.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:36 PM
Nobody should be proud their 4 (or 5, or 6, or 7...) year old child can load a gun. Perhaps you as parents should be with your children so they don't have to protect themselves. Obama is right, ignorance breeds a love of gods and guns. Unfortunately, ignorance also seems to breed too many children as well.
Posted by: WOW on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:34 PM
I have a solution: Keep your guns and amunition LOCKED up so your children cannot get to them. Shouldnt this be a LAW? And put the safty on! If you have children this should be common practice.
Posted by: gvn on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:33 PM
The babysitter had to make this kid mad , I dont think he stepped on the kids foot by accident . He made the kid angry with abuse , at 4 years old in his own home he had to be physically abused by the 17 year old . It makes sense that he got mad and decided to get the gun and shoot , in his mind he had no way to retreat from the 17 year old .The kid was defending himself , no doubt about it .The father probably knows this but feels he must say what the authorities want to hear .He is intimidated by the authorities , who always have to have the last word .The authorities want the child to go to counseling so they can interigate him to find out what actually happened .Its an unfortunate incident alltogether , but it seems all parties involved have pursued an elaborate guise to make it all go away .
Posted by: bonn on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:32 PM
A four year old can do this because he was TAUGHT to do this. Where the problem lies is the parents not teaching him to respect life at the same time. Why? People have no morals. Did a big thing teaching him this, didn't you? Very sad. VERY SAD!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:25 PM
as i watched a episode of a well known childrens show the other day with my 3 yearold i was appaled by the demonstration of how to load a pistol, thats where there getting the ideas
Posted by: jessee on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:04 PM
oh yeah them babys can load guns now , thanks to the parents , and this is a good thing. who will protect them , that guy coulde have broke the babes foot, but people dont care
Posted by: mark on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:45 PM
my child, as the one mentioned, can load a gun and is also 4. as parents children need to protect themselves from, abusers..and i am very proud that my daughter can defend herself from the terrors of being abused.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:36 PM
We want a local update ! Did Randy cut and run? How about a full report at 11.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:17 PM
stepped on his foot, well he should have been shot for stepping on that boys foot, its hurt that bad....
Posted by: Allie on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:14 PM
I don't see why people try to lay the blame when they weren't even there. Yes the teens could have been playing around and Yes the kid could've done it too. I have seen many four year olds that could shoot this kind of gun and many kids that were troubled enough to do something like this. Maybe the kid's parents were hunters, I know that they teach their kids to hunt at an early age.
Posted by: RUserious on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:13 PM
The article reads "aggravated assault against the 4-year-old"......WHAT? How can a 4 year old child be charged? That baby cannot be held accountable for what happened...if anyone is charged it should be the parents. What kind of parents does this kid have? Something is not right here!!!
Posted by: April on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:04 PM
I think that it is the parents fault and they should have the child taken from them. The boys safety is not thier top priority or the gun and shells would not have been in a place where he could get to it that easily. I think it is terrible how this will affect the boy. I mean were would he even get the idea it is o.k. to shoot someone just cause you are mad, that is abuse in itself.
Posted by: Frankie on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:02 PM
First of all, did the teenager accidentally step on the child? If not, perhaps this child is reacting due to abuse that has not been recognized. A shotgun has a kick..how did he manage it? There are many questions in this case, and in NO WAY should a 4 year old be charged. He may need to receive counseling, especially to find out what is going on or has been going on to make a baby..yes he is still a baby, go into a rage. The other problem is taking him from his home and placing him in foster care is no answer either, as foster homes can be as bad or worse than the natural environment. Wasn't there more than one teenager there as reported in the first story..maybe the child had "encouragement" and help. Hoepfully, the police are smarter than the kids.
Posted by: ANNA on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:49 PM
THIS IS NUTS! PLEASE TELL ME THIS IS A JOKE? WHAT FOUR YEAR OLD IS GOING TO BE ABLE TO DO ALL THIS. I AGREE WITH MOST OF THESE PEOPLES COMMENTS. SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT AND WHAT YA GONNA PUT A FOUR YEAR OLD BEHIND BARS AND CHARGE HIM AS AN ADULT? BE FOR REAL PEOPLE
Posted by: Jess on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:18 PM
I think you should look at the teenagers. I really dont think a 4 year old could hold a gun up and shoot and hit any one. That gun should of been lock up. Not where a little kid can get it. Like i said before check out the older kids. Someone is hiding something and its not the 4 year old.....
Posted by: ryker on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:14 PM
omg how would the little 4 year old get the gun and loaded the 20 gage shot gun and it makes me wonder why diddint the baby sitter watch him isint that what there payed to do realy just think about it
Posted by: mark on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:00 PM
first and foremost how did a 4 yr old get hold of that 12 gauge shotgun?second how did a 4 yr old break down,load,reengage,carry,hold,aim and pull the trigger of a 12 gauge?i have fired several different 12 gauge shotguns in my 44 years and every one of them has a kick back when the hammer hits the firing pin.that 4 year old would have been knocked back at least 2 feet and flat on the floor after firing it.this needs to be fully investigated and those teenagers needed to be tested for gpr when the police came to the site
Posted by: kek on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:56 PM
The real issue is that a 4 year old is filled with this much anger, that he would think about striking out in such away at another person.
Posted by: Tam on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:55 PM
Are you sure the babysister didn't shoot himself or someone else may have shot him...But come on a 4 year old thats still a baby .
Posted by: Peggy on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:48 PM
My 9 year old can barely pick up a 20 gauge let alone pick it up and shoot someone. This does not sound right.
Posted by: Bill on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:36 PM
You are right T. There must be some brusing on his little frame. Check his hands and knuckles too. I don't think he could have put the gun to his shoulder.
Posted by: Private on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:24 PM
I know Nathan and he is a great guy I went to school with him and he wouldn't hurt anyone! And I know the other tow teenagers. They are all 3 good kids so I don't see what the fuss is about! Give the kids a break I mean they are all 18 and should know better but steeping on a 4 y/o foot they shouldn't get in trouble for it!
Posted by: JOHN on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:07 PM
OH PLEASE,EMAIL NANCY GRACE? SHE IS A TV PERSONALITY NOW AND IS ONLY LOOKING FOR RATINGS POINTS BUT THAT'S ANOTHER STORY.I DON'T KNOW IF THIS CHILD COULD DO THIS BUT IT IS POSSIBLE I GUESS WITH SOME CHILDREN THAT AGE BEING STRONG ENOUGH TO DO IT.THE COPS? THEY ARE ONLY INTERESTED IN MAKING THE PAPER OR TV AND PUTTING A FEATHER IN THERE OWN HATS I'M SORT OF SURPRISED THEY DIDN'T GANG TACKLE THE CHILD PUT CUFFS AND SHACKLES ON HIM.GRANTED THE GUN WAS LEFT IN A DANGEROUS PLACE FOR AN UNTRAINED PERSON, ADULT OR CHILD, AND. SHOULD'VE BEEN LOCKED UP. FOR THE IDIOT THAT SAID THE CHILD SHOULD BE TRIED AS AND ADULT IS TOTALLY OUTRAGEOUS. WHAT DO YOU PUT HIM IN JAIL WITH ALL THE OTHER MURDERERS AND RAPISTS. SOUNDS TO ME LIKE THIS CHILD MIGHT HAVE NEEDED HAS BACKSIDE PADDLED TO EDUCATE HIM A LITTLE,OH MY GOD WHERE'S CPS I SAID TO PADDLE A CHILD? BETTER IT BE DONE AT HOME INSTEAD OF LETTING HIM GROW UP GET IN TROUBLE AND GET BEATEN BY THE COPS HMMM? WHAT REALLY PROVOKED THIS CHILD IF HE DID DO THIS
Posted by: Kathleen on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:48 PM
How could a 4 year old load a shotgun? Why was the shotgun left out so the child could easily get a hold of it? If the shotgun was not already loaded then why was the bullets left out? I have tons of questions I can generate and all lead me to believe there is more to this story than what is being told. No 4 year old could possibly load a 20 gauge shotgun all by himself and shoot it.
Posted by: Mallory on Jan 6, 2009 at 03:56 PM
They teach their kids to hunt at an early age. I'm not surprised he knew what he was doing. The parents should be charged for not having it locked up safely, not for teaching him how to shoot.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 03:01 PM
It is already on the National news. Check Foxnews website.
Posted by: M on Jan 6, 2009 at 02:59 PM
Who said it was a brake down shotgun? For all U simple minded gun control freaks, there are many different types of 20 guage shot guns and it ain't rocket science to figure out how to load any of them.
Posted by: Devastator MBT on Jan 6, 2009 at 02:40 PM
The sheriff that looked into the possibility of charging a 4 year old with a crime; he needs to lose his badge! A 4 year old is too little for juvenile hall, he needs put in a caring home and carefully watched. Alert for those in older homes/trailers: Prior to 1968, you could legally buy guns through the mail order; undoubtedly, some people have deserted some of that weaponry. Heaven alone knows how many shotguns, deer rifles, Lugers, and the like are ready to rediscovered. Please check your homes and outbuildings, your local PD would be glad to dispose of any unwanted weaponry. Additionally, it should be a felony crime; for any criminal to throw a weapon away in a populated area(like a neighborhood). There's a big urban problem with kids hurting themselves, when they find weaponry ditched by fleeing gang members. Prayers for this little kid and the victim(s).
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 02:37 PM
I"m just wondering if they did any type of forensics testing. Seems to me that they might be able to look for residue on the hand of ALL involved to find out who shot the gun. Or is that too expensive for them to do? I realize real life isn't like all these crime dramas on TV but is that an option? To do a gunpowder residue test on the teens and the baby?
Posted by: IN SHOCK on Jan 6, 2009 at 02:00 PM
I DO NOT BELIVE A 4 YEAR OLD COULD DO THIS? THE PARENTS SHOULD BE CHARGED .THIS CASE SHOULD BE INVESTIGATIONED.2 TEENAGERS SOMETHING MISSING HERE?
Posted by: sad on Jan 6, 2009 at 01:19 PM
this is sad
Posted by: Debbie on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:49 PM
Someone loaded that gun for the 4 yr old!! Please!!!!!!!!! How many 4yr olds could even lift a 20 gauge! I smell a lying teenager somewhere! And I bet they were in that same trailer!
Posted by: MD on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:46 PM
I actually do agree with what "ron" says. However that aside i have some comments first of all i'd love to know how a four year old loaded a gun, at four years old shoot i didn't know anything outside of a barbie doll i had no idea what a gun even was. If the four year old really shot someone than my guess is someone had to teach him how to load and shoot the gun. But at four years old i just wouldn't think i little kid is strong enough to handle a 20 gage shotgun. Granted i don't know a whole lot about guns but if its the gun i'm thinking it is, thats a fairly big gun and awfully heavy for a little feller like that to be able to handle well enough to shoot anyone. Second of all what in the world was a gun doing out in the home to where a 4 year old could get it? It should have been put up somewhere to where that kid (and anyone else for that matter) couldn't get to it.You don't just leave stuff like that laying around the house.
Posted by: cc on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:37 PM
u are all crazy wat happend was a accisdent and all ur opinoins dont matter there was four teens watching him not one there was 3 teen boys 1 teen girl and 2 little kids and u cant just blame it on us teens!! what the news said is int all the truth u werent there so dont judge
Posted by: Someone on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:36 PM
Can't they dust the gun for prints? Or the outside of the shell if there is anything left of it. I mean come on we have a little bit of things we can do to prove this without sending it off somewhere and it take years to find out.
Posted by: BelieveItOrNot on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:12 PM
To all the people who find it so hard to believe a 4 year old can fire a shotgun- there was a news story on Fox News about an ATV accident where a 2 year old died because of a text message. But also in the story it talks about the 2 year old firing a rifle. A two year old firing a rifle? is that too hard to believe as well? While we should be proud of our heritage, our love country's love affair with guns is out of date...
Posted by: CALICO on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:57 AM
Who said he mean't to shoot him in the foot , maybe he just couldn't lift it any higher
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:52 AM
To: what on Jan 5, 2009 at 11:17 PM Um yeah pretty much, everyone who believes it is stupid lol and no i wasnt there but it doenst take a genius to figure it out...And yes an investigation needs done. It wont though, like i said "cops are stupid"
Posted by: JOhn on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:38 AM
A four year old cannot possess the requisite criminal culpability to be held criminally responsible. I don't know who this sheriff is but I think he should be removed from office. All it takes is one ridiculous comment like charging a 4 year old with Agg Assault for people to ascertain that the Sheriff of Jackson County is, well, challenged.
Posted by: Momma of 5 Kids on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:17 AM
ok this does sound far fetched.I have 5 kids and my 2 boys are in the NRA and they know how and when to use a gun and thats only when either their Father or I are present or their gun instructor. Our daughters in the future will also join but far as a 4 year old shooting a gun--what the hell is this kid eatting to lift a 20 gauge gun and be able to load and steady it while he aimed to shoot.I have watched my boys and see how hard it is for them to steady a gun and I too know its not easy and they are 11 and 16. And a 20 gauge also does leave a bruise because I have seen it on them when they use a 20 gauge. So yea something makes no sense here. Sounds like we should be checking for a bruise and gun residue on everone present at the time.
Posted by: Mossberg JR on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:03 AM
Quit posting stupid comments about this kid.You and I know that this boy couldn't have done this.The police better step back and think this out. Take the kid and put the gun in front of him, tell him to load it, and let him shoot it.Take the juvies and give them a lie detector test.I think you'll get a positive answer. My son's eight and I have guns and he doesn't get near them PERIOD. Those boys were nosing around and found the gun.
Posted by: WHATEVER!! on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:23 AM
OGM. are you for real? I dont beleave it at all but if he did I MEAN IF HE DID someone had to show him how to load it. am I right?
Posted by: crissy on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:23 AM
i was there and u all dont no wat happend i was there and i was one of the 18 years olds there u dont have to believe wat happend but it did we are all suffering
Posted by: love on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:25 AM
did this teenager step on his foot on purpose trying to be mean? Maybe he was abusing him. Who knows what really happened. I bet the whole truth did not come out. I think the parents should have a long talk with this child and put up their guns. The guns should have been put away locked with any child in the house. Maybe they were and the teens got them out. I hope the parents will love and guide and protect all these kids. They all need love.
Posted by: STEPPING on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:59 AM
I JUST SEEN THIS ON FOX NEWS. 30 SECONDS AND AROUND THE WORLD.
Posted by: Bill on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:29 AM
My neighbor hood has a violent gang of 4 and 5 year olds who are armed with sling shots and pea shooters. THEY ARE VERY DANGEROUS!! It is that that their leader has learned to make a really hard spit ball!! Watch out..I hope they never ever get bb guns or it will be curtains for us oldsters!!!LOL and don't turn your back on a 4 year old you just walked all over.
Posted by: Amazed! on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:05 AM
Wonderful! our area made national news with this pathetic story.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:04 AM
These are teenagers we are talking about. I really dont believe a 4 year old picked up a gun, loaded it, carried it back to the teens, aimed and shot anyone. Seems these teens are hiding something....Teenagers (as well as adults)lie all the time to get out of trouble. More investigation needs done on this one. A 4 year old also cant be held accountable for saying anything about it. I can tell my 4 year old that she messed up her room, and she belives me and will tell ppl that she did....Come on....this is crazy!!!!!!! My 12 year old has trouble holding a 22....
Posted by: Just Me KY on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:03 AM
I just want to know why the parents have not been charged with endangering the child. Leaving a deadly weapon in reach of a 4 year old. I have two kids 11 and 14. My guns are locked away out of site (out of mind)! Wise cracks against WV or OH residents will not change the fact that gun safety is more important than gun control. You can buy trigger locks for guns. Even if a kid can get to it or get to the ammunition then it cannot be fired.
Posted by: tina on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:52 AM
dont think a 4 year cannot load a gun. my nephew was 4 when he wanted to show a friend his dads gun. and it happened in a split second so to speak. the boys were playing videos and someone came up outside so we walked out to see who it was. the next thing we know we hear a gun going off. the shells were hidden in a drawer and the gun under the bed.it was 30/30. luckily the gun was heavy for him and he couldnt lift it but he did shot a whole in the floor.everyone thought the gun and shells were hidden away from the kids.so people should never say a 4yr old couldnt do it, just pretend they can and lock the guns up ans stop the problem before it happens
Posted by: gayle on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:17 AM
that is the dumbest thing i have ever heard. those other boys were playing with the gun and had an accident. they should have made up a better story if they were going to lie. jackson county sheriff don't be as dumb as portsmouth PD, check out the big boys and see about their history.
Posted by: Mom of Two in ky on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:13 AM
o dear lord, there is no way that a 4 yr old could do this, a shot gun no way.. I hope the police realizes that geeze. what are they thinking is there a bruise on the babys shoulder or body,gun powder residue? I know when I shoot my 20 gage i get a kick back and a slight bruise . this is unbelievable.The force of that gun would have knocked that baby back and there is just no way this 4 year old did this
Posted by: Bev on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:11 AM
I'm 47 years old and I just learned how to load my 20-gauge. I feel like a lot of the other posters on here. There is more to this story. Maybe the 4 year old didn't do it. Maybe they were playing around and it accidentally went off. Who better to blame than someone who can't possibly defend themselves???
Posted by: Wow!!! on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:25 AM
I just want to say "WoW", I mean, first of all how big is this child? He would have to be pretty big to hold a shot gun, those have kick, and they are very heavy and you guys out there blaming the parents, who are you to judge? Did you ever stop to think that maybe they were at work and had a family member watch the child.. You know child care now days is out of control, It cost way to much, even if both parents are working, it cost my son and his wife 400 dollars a month for day care and they don't pay their workers very well either so the way I see it you get what you pay for which isn't very good care... Wait for the whole story if Wsaz can do that for the parents sake...Stop judging,
Posted by: Foxy on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:17 AM
Did the Police test the hands of everyone in the home to see WHO shot the gun? Also, surely there is a bruise on a 4 yr old from a shotgun blast. Were there any pictures taken of the 4 yr old's upper body? I am an adult and they bruise me.
Posted by: T on Jan 6, 2009 at 01:46 AM
i think that the police need to check out the teenagers! there is no way a 4 yr. old can do this!if they still believe that this 4 yr. old did do this, then check his body for physical evidence, he will be brusied somewhere.DO THE INVESTIGATION!
Posted by: Kim on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:40 AM
To Ron . Your comments are uncalled for. Looks like you people in ohio are catching up with us people in West Viginia on crime.
Posted by: fred on Jan 6, 2009 at 12:31 AM
another one for rossie
Posted by: CLAY CO. on Jan 5, 2009 at 11:26 PM
I'LL BUY THAT LAND MR. SAMPLES, I'M ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ISLAND!!!!
Posted by: what on Jan 5, 2009 at 11:17 PM
WHY DO YOU SAY "THE POLICE ARE TOO STUPID" THEY HAVE TO TAKE THE STORY AS IT IS TOLD AND THEN DO AN "INVESTIGATION". BESIDES, I GUESS YOU ARE SAYING ALL THESE OTHER PEOPLE ARE STUPID FOR BELIEVING THE STORY. I WAS NOT THERE, WERE YOU dd?
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 11:16 PM
this is bs a 4 year old cant do all that may be if the gun was loaded the child could i mean i dont belive this i thank the 2 teenager was playin with the gun an shot thier self with it then congeird up a story that the 4 year old done it an the stupid cops belived it but hey i could be wrong
Posted by: Anon on Jan 5, 2009 at 11:14 PM
OMG are you serious. So if they convict this 4 yr old where do they put him? Is there such a thing as preschool-prison? If this is what really happened maybe it should be the parents charged(the parents of which ever house they were at)for having a shotgun and shells accessable to a 4 yr old. Gimmie a break what can the system be thinkin on this one? Also if it did happen that way I think this child needs some help. Can you imagine a child getting that angry ? There has to be some problems there. But I still think it is all BS and the trigger was pulled by someone else.
Posted by: Ashley on Jan 5, 2009 at 11:04 PM
Ron>> You sound like an overzealous idiot. Personally, I agree with the rest of you guys, there is NO WAY a four year old possesses the strength and dexterity to do this.
Posted by: lydia on Jan 5, 2009 at 10:58 PM
Now how in thee world can a 4 year old load a 20-gauge shot gun!If i had to be guessing, he probably learned from his parents/guardian.You know childern these days are not what they were in the 70's right? GOD BLESS TO ALL!
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 10:49 PM
no comment...
Posted by: concerned mother on Jan 5, 2009 at 10:47 PM
this is to wow, even after my ex husband attacked me in front of our very young children I still did not keep a gun in our home. Children can harbor anger just as much as an adult. If your children are as protective of you as mine are of me, they would easily pick up that gun and use it to the best of their ability!
Posted by: deb on Jan 5, 2009 at 10:46 PM
LOL, this is unbelievable. Another story for Jay Leno's headlines or better yet a "My Name Is Earl" episode. Folks even in Mayberry crimes were solved. Looks like the 4 year old would be evaluated for bruises from a gun kick...I'm sorry but this story is pretty far fetched.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 10:37 PM
If it happened in Jaclson, Ohio, why is everyone dogging West Virginia? It wasn't our four year old on the news
Posted by: concerned mom on Jan 5, 2009 at 10:35 PM
one day i had my child at this home and this child pinched a piece from my kid.the parents laughed and said yeah he can shot a shotgun , i figured he would end up in prison before he was 5. maybe prison will get the child and the mom , think twice,. guns arent for children and i think i made my point, let me know what you think.
Posted by: peds nurse on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:57 PM
If you really want the truth try giving the teens a lie detector test to see which teen fired the gun. Give the baby some cookies and a hug and he'll tell you the truth and nothing but the truth.
Posted by: Don't think so on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:57 PM
I think there is more to this story, if it's true at all. I'd hate to see what happened if someone interrupted him while he was watching Spongebob.
Posted by: Morgan on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:55 PM
Theyre going to have a hard time finding another sitter for this little one LoL! I hope CPS is now involved in this case. Why does the 4 yr old even know how to load a gun??
Posted by: dd on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:49 PM
I agree. If you read the police report and read the wsaz topic, none of it makes sense at all! First off I dont see a 4 year old getting that angry to shoot someone. Second, if he did do this, the report says he got the shell, went back to the bedroom, got the gun, LOADED the gun and then came back to where 4 or 5 other people were???? Come on. And if you're babysitting arent you supposed to be watching the boy?? This isnt right and I do not believe the little boy did it. Plus it states there are witnesses, it names 2 boys plus a 5 year old...Now thats a lot of people to not notice the 4 year old was gone and up to something. Also, why are 2 18 year old boys babysitting?? I mean not to be judgmental, but 18 year old boys dont normally babysit small children...This sounds made up i agree with others or something else happened and the police are too stupid to realize it!
Posted by: Ward on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:49 PM
The 4 year old should be charged with attempted murder and tried as an adult.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:48 PM
after reading the police report, I don't know, something is wierd, a 20 gauge is a big gun for a 4 year old, it had to have kicked the snot out of him but the police report said he laid it down, maybe it's a big 4 year old, who knows.
Posted by: CLS on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:45 PM
OK..let me get this straight..and I quote.."the Sheriff says..aggravated assault against the 4 year-old..this put me in hysterical laughter,who is this genius and what is his educational background in law emforcement???..WTG!
Posted by: dan m on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:44 PM
ive known the babes parents and they learned him at a young age to protect and honor, more parents should take heed.
Posted by: Eric on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:39 PM
im going with Doyle on this one....no way did a 4 yr old load a shotgun and then was able to carry it thru the house and then raise it,find his target and shoot.NO WAY!!! i would have had the child show me how he did it with a blank shell.summin smells bad.
Posted by: Unknown on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:34 PM
This story is strange and what are the cops trying to hide or cover up? Why isn't anyone concerned with what is going on with the 4yr old and why the parents would even be so stupid to teach a young child how to load a stupid gun! These parents need there rights taken away and charged with child endangerment,Come on CPS step in when you are needed for once!
Posted by: April on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:32 PM
I remember when I was about 12 shooting a shotgun, the one and only time I ever shot a shotgun. My father was standing behind me with his hands on the gun too and I still had a bruise on my entire shoulder. SO how can a 4 year old who would be what? 30 pounds or so manage to shoot one? Sounds like a bunch of crap to me.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:30 PM
Here is how I see it a 4 year old is not strong enough to breaka gun down and put a shell into the chamber and pull the hammer back or if it was a pump how would he cock it the 4 year old didn't do it one of the teenagers shot the 18 year old boy the police down in Jackson must be dumb
Posted by: Whatever!!! on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:25 PM
WHAT EVER! I have a four year old and I have shot a shotgun before. It knocked me back. I seriously doubt that a four year old could have done this. SOMEONE IS NOT TELLING THE TRUTH.
Posted by: oh my on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:19 PM
As much as I hate to say it, but if the gun in question is anything like my new england 20 gauge... The four year old can do it. Further more... My children all have their own 22/410. All of them have been around guns since they entered this world... None of them ever touch or pay attention to their guns until they are instructed. People who hide their guns and don't teach their kids about gun safety are the true idots... As for the WOW again woman... you have issues if you are keeping loaded weapons in your house. A gun is only dangerous when loaded with an idiot behind it pulling the trigger. We have several guns in our home and no ammunition anywhere close. A loaded weapon is meant for firing not for sitting around.
Posted by: STORYBOOK on Jan 5, 2009 at 09:12 PM
I AM GOING TO E-MAIL NANCY GRACE,SHE WILL GET THE TRUTH! 4 YEARS OLD AND CAN LOAD A GUN BY HIM SELF? SOMETHING FISHY HERE?
Posted by: concerned parent on Jan 5, 2009 at 08:54 PM
this sounds like hog wash to me.
Posted by: anon on Jan 5, 2009 at 08:47 PM
Sounds to me like the four year old got blamed for the babysitters shooting up the place.
Posted by: Mike on Jan 5, 2009 at 08:42 PM
First of all, I agree with Larry (4:13pm) about believing this story. Now to those saying the babysitter shouldn't be charged, I just want to know how many of you would let him watch your kid(s)? If the 4 yr. old went into another room and loaded a shotgun, he had to be gone for awhile. Also, don't tell me a 4 year old came into the living room carrying a shotgun, had time to lift it and draw a bead, without someone being able to stop him. What was the babysitter doing during all of this? Doesn't sound like he was babysitting to me, wouldn't you agree?
Posted by: megan on Jan 5, 2009 at 08:11 PM
this is totally crazy -- have the police forgotten that the 4yr old has parents and is ultimely responsible - they should be charged for child endangerment by not having the guns locked up -- and someone had to have shown that child how to load a gun -- they don't figure it out that fast without being shown. Also charging the babysitter??? for all we know they could have been playing a game that went too far.. what is this world coming to? if a 4yr old does that now - wait until they get older and something ticks them off.. what a great way to handle their upset when they get upset or don't get what they want.. it is true they learn from their parents
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 08:05 PM
If this child did what he's is being accused of, wouldn't there be bruises on the child from shooting the shot gun??? Just curious!!! Why would any mature adult, show a 4 year old child how to load a shot gun? Sorry people, this smells a little fishy to me.....
Posted by: SA on Jan 5, 2009 at 08:03 PM
To appalled, I absolutely agree with you, guns should not be taken away from people that know how to correctly store a gun without bullets being anywhere around, and the gunsbeing locked up with a hidden key, and safety on regardless. GUNS DON'T SHOOT OR KILL PEOPLE, ITS THE IDIOTS WITH THE GUNS THAT SHOOT AND KILL PEOPLE!!!!!!
Posted by: RoaneCo. on Jan 5, 2009 at 07:00 PM
For Sale: 3 miles of ocean front property in Roane County. Swim with the dolphins or sit on the beach and whale watch as the sun sets. Perfect for that vacation home you have always wanted. Call Junior Samples at BR-549.
Posted by: dave on Jan 5, 2009 at 07:00 PM
a four year old child will not be smart enough to load a shout gun or figure out how to take the safety off or cock it
Posted by: He loaded it? on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:58 PM
I dunno Larry & "you must be joking"...considering some of the other really strange and crazy things that happen in this world anymore, why not this? Wouldn't surprise me if it's not true If he really did do this & he even knew how to LOAD the gun? Then he and any sibs need taken away from this bunch ASAP! Someone had to teach him how to load and shoot the thing! THAT wouldn't surprise me either with some "parents" nowadays!
Posted by: Scott on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:31 PM
I find it extremely hard to believe that a 4 yr. old child can load, let alone shoot a 20 gauge shotgun. My guess is that the babysitters were playing around with the gun and they're blaming the 4 yr old since it's unlikely that a 4 yr old would do jail time.
Posted by: L on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:29 PM
I don't understand even considering charges against a 4 yr old. I do understand charging the 18 yr old for child endangerment. The 18 yr old was supposed to be watching the 4 yr old...who was playing with a gun. A 4 yr old is not expected to be responsible, an 18 yr old is. And this 18 yr old ignored the child he was supposed to be watching and allowed him to get his hands on a gun.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:25 PM
Kids only copy what they see from their parents. If this little boy did something like this...What are his parents like? He had to learn it somewhere.
Posted by: Ron on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:22 PM
LOL What do you West Virginia gun nuts say NOW? "Guns don't kill people, people kill people?" LOL What if that "people" is 4 years old? Obama was right. Ya'll just cling to your guns and your Bibles. But most of all, your ignorance.
Posted by: kevin maynard on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:20 PM
Look at wvrja.com at all of the 4 year olds pulling hard time. Some one is full of crap.
Posted by: Cassie on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:14 PM
Charge the 4 year old? Hopefully he gets the same prosecuter/judge Dave Evans did!
Posted by: Devastator MBT on Jan 5, 2009 at 06:09 PM
Where are the child welfare people? Thank Heaven the kid didn't have a Luger, he might have shot several people. Obviously, something is messed up and needs fixed here; a 4 year old is too little for juvenile hall.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 05:59 PM
WTF????? who lets a 4 year old have a gun? or teach one how to load a gun??
Posted by: mom of 2 on Jan 5, 2009 at 05:45 PM
I'm sorry, but how many 4 year old kids do you know that can load a shotgun and shoot it???? Sounds like BS to me!!!!!
Posted by: Maddi on Jan 5, 2009 at 05:35 PM
I agree with some of the comments. How in the world did a 4 yr old shoot a 20 gauge shotgun and not get hurt? I was 7 yrs old and shot a 12 gauge and it threw me up against the side of the hill and it put a big bruise on my shoulder. There is no way that this child shot this gun and didn't get hurt. I agree that there is more to this story and the 18 yr old which is a adult and the other person were playing with the gun and yes it could have been a accident and one shot the 18 yr old but to blame it on a 4 yr old so they wouldn't go to jail i think that is more of the story. There is no way this child done it.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 05:12 PM
All doesn't add up. Also everyone keeps saying charge the parents whom said they were babysitting at the childs home? Maybe they were at the teenagers home instead. Many parents drop their kids off at babysitters. So step back for a second and stop judging. As for a four year old doing this I agree should be at least some brusing from using a shotgun. Also this isn't that out there just a few months ago wasn't it a 7 or 8 year old in Arizona that shot and killed his father and a friend of the family? Don't be to quick to accept but don't judge to quickly as well.
Posted by: seriously? on Jan 5, 2009 at 05:07 PM
My son is 5 years old. At 4, the only way he would've known how to load and discharge a shotgun would have been if I had spent considerable time teaching him. I agree with others that this kid is probably getting the blame for something that another teenager did. Maybe the police should ask the child to show them how he did it (minus the live rounds). And to BillyJack: I wouldnt boast about the fact that your "pappy" taught you about guns before he taught you the alphabet. But maybe he was teaching what he knew and leaving out what he didnt.
Posted by: ruth on Jan 5, 2009 at 05:06 PM
this can;t be true, a 4year old can't break down a shotgun to load it,unless someone helped; this is crazy
Posted by: M on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:41 PM
The parents should be charged and have this children taken away from them.
Posted by: TO LARRY on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:38 PM
GO CRAW BACK UNDER THE ROCK YOU LIVE UNDER!
Posted by: Woowh on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:38 PM
I don't see how the 4 year old could have carried it,let alone held it while he pulled the trigger, especially depending on the gauge of the shotgun. That blows my mind, and he has had to have seen how to do it somewhere, somehow. I am in aggreance, I believe the parents would be the ones held accountable, why charge the teenage babysitter at all, did he know the child was messing with a shotgun, did he even know it was there possibily not. Charging the 4yr old or the teen is ludicrious.
Posted by: eclipse on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:37 PM
The parents should be the ones in trouble here. No way should a child have access to get to a gun and let alone know how to load the shells?
Posted by: OMG on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:34 PM
WOW!! WHERE ARE THE PARENTS!!!!!!!!!!! I feel they are to blame. Someone had to teach this child how to get the shells and how to load the gun. Also, why was a firearm so easily acessible to any child regardless of age? I can understand charging the 18 y/o for a violation but not the child b/c the child could not understand the punishment. If the child knows so much about a firearm that what type of home is this child growing up in? I am not trying to bash this child but his actions are extreme for a child, the parents may need to seek some type of counseling for this child. Feel sorry for the person that got shot. Just do not understand how this happens?
Posted by: Mo on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:34 PM
Ladies and Gents let me tell you something I have 4 sons and I can assure you that if this child put bullets into a gun and shot it and hit his intended target that this is a miracle child! My sons oldest being 10 still cant aim his bb gun properly even with instructions from us and he has had it for many years. So here is my thoughts on this! 1.) Either someone else loaded this gun and showed the boy how to shoot it and maybe even helped him aim it. OR 2.) The teenagers (knowing they would get into trouble) are fibbing to cover one another for having the gun out and shooting it and accidently hitting another teen. There is no way this child 4yrs old could load aim and shoot someone "by himself" and if there is any other doubt do testing have the child practice shooting the gun at a range for evidence! Lets see how good a shot he is! Now if he can do this then the parents and the teens need to all be charged! Lets not blame an innocent child. Hold the responsible , responsible. Cont..
Posted by: larry on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:13 PM
If you believe this story I have some swamp land for sale.This is a made up story.
Posted by: You must be joking on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:11 PM
Something doesnt sound right here...
Posted by: Anon on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:09 PM
I have a 4 year old myself and all of the guns in the house are out of reach & the shells aren't even in the house at all. I agree with everyone else's comments, about the child's anger, why the gun was so easily accessible, etc. May God be with this little boy and give him love in his heart. My prayers go out to all involved.
Posted by: Confused on Jan 5, 2009 at 04:02 PM
It amazed by this. Where are all you people who were quick to judge the young man that accidentally shot & killed Michael Mullins. How sad when a 4yr old can load a gun & knew what he was doing. Why aren't you making nasty comments about this situation, what about his parents. Is it ok just because of the age. Come on people let's be real. I know this gentleman very well in the Mullins situation & also knew Michael & I know for a fact that Haskel would not harm anyone on purpose. Again I ask, Is it ok because of this childs age & where did he learn to load a gun. Now maybe you people will have something new to talk about & leave the Mullins & Johnson families alone to grieve.
Posted by: beth on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:56 PM
hmmmm...Imagine what if this was a school aged child and another kid spilled milk on him, would he bring a gun to school and handle it the same way? Sounds like this child is being taught or being exposed to the wrong things. Aside from the fact of the gun and shells not being locked away, why does a 4 year old know how to load one? shouldn't they be coloring? This is just unbelievable. Don't get me wrong, if this was a mistake I'm sure the parents are feeling pretty bad but even careless mistakes deserve punishment.
Posted by: Appalled! on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:55 PM
I can't believe this! I'm ALL for keeping guns especially now with home invasions and crime so rampant, BUT any IDIOT knows enough to keep those guns LOCKED UP! How on earth does a 4 yr old even know how to handle or shoot a real shotgun? Pretty heavy for him I would think much less shoot it! Not only was the gun accessible, it was LOADED? Please don't tell me the kid knew how to load it too! I totally agree with "D" on here @ 12:34 p.m. These idiots do not deserve to have a child! He learned this anger stuff from THEM as "D" said! They need taken out and beaten to hopefully beat some sense into them They're probably on drugs though & could care less what their kid(s) does What morons! People will say "oh it's the guns, take them away from people"...NO, it's not the GUNS, it's the idiots who have them who shouldn't and who don't know enough or CARE enough to lock them away from kids!
Posted by: BillB on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:49 PM
I'm sorry but this story dosen't sound right to me. Must be more to it.
Posted by: JC on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:37 PM
If the authorities charge the 4 year old, there would be a community outcry and it would hit the national news. There is no way you could file charges on a 4 year old baby. The parents should be charged and the babysitter should be charged for not keeping an eye on the child. How long should a child be left alone before someone goes to check to see what it is doing? Who knows what other guns are in the home and that child could have gotten killed. Only in Jackson...
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:29 PM
Charging the teen? Aggravated assault against the 4 year old for stepping on his foot? The deputies in Ohio should be evaluated for mental health. Then charge the gun owners for not having it locked up. i think the 18 year old is probably suffering enough with his shotgun blast wound.
Posted by: Shar on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:27 PM
Why would a four-year-old child know where to find a gun, and why would he know how to load it? I thought guns were to be kept in a safe place away from children for THEIR safety. I can't imagine a four-year-old child having so much anger that he would even think about shooting someone. Is there more to the story? Did the babysitter do more than step on the child's foot?
Posted by: brittany on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:21 PM
i cant believe that a child that age would have access to a gun and also know how to load it. I mean how could he even know how to load it? Also why would they charge the babysitter with child endangerment it is not his fault that a 4 yr old knows how to load a gun and him probablly didnt mean to step on the childs foot. I do think the parents should be more responsible with having a gun in the house.
Posted by: dont understand on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:16 PM
the parents need to be held responsible for the 4 year old actions. 4 year olds do not know how to load a gun unless taught, or shown. And why was the gun and ammo where the child could reach it. The parents needs to do some explaining. I hope the babysitter recovers fully.
Posted by: WOW again on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:12 PM
seems to me like a case of "im going to buy a gun, let my kid see me and my spouse fight, let my kid see how the gun works, let my kid see the destructin, but not TEACH my kid what the consequences of pulling a trigger or shooting someone can be". I myself have 3 kids :9, 3, & 10 months. I also have 9 guns, 2 loaded, rest not. In my circumstance, I have to have a loaded gun, exhusbands threats have made my decision for me. but my kids are ALL educated, ALL taught what can happen, and neither of them are curious enough to take one without asking, or shoot one for that matter. Kids should be warned properly, guns and ammo should be stored properly, and babysitters should be warned that guns are present in the home. this is a sad case for gun owners alike, and its unfortunate this had to happen. what kind of anger issues do a 4 year old have? and why isn't the issue of the parents being charged brought up? WOW.
Posted by: Aqui on Jan 5, 2009 at 03:02 PM
How?
Posted by: Doyle on Jan 5, 2009 at 02:49 PM
One must realize that this may not be the full truth. If the child loaded the gun, was able to lift it, get a general bead on his target, and fire the thing without breaking anything, including himself, kind of stretches the imagination. I'm not saying it didn't happen, just a little far fetched to me. O the other hand, if this gun-crime progidy actually did what is claimed, charge the boy's parents for having a firearm within easy reach of a child, with ammunition readily available. There are gun-ownership laws and regulations. Enforce them. And don't let this become another weapon in the hands of anti-gun groups.
Posted by: Shocked!!! on Jan 5, 2009 at 02:28 PM
Just because you can have children doesn't mean that everyone should. For a child to have that much anger at the age of 4 abuse may come into question. I hope that the police really check out this childs environment. Thank goodness the 18 year old didn't die.
Posted by: A on Jan 5, 2009 at 02:23 PM
Ok guys this is what I see going on... It says some teenagers was baby setting. People do you honestly cant believe a 4 year old shot someone? It had to be one of the teenagers. Maybe they was playing around with the guns and one went off and they got scared and blamed it on the 4 year old. Think about it. Could any normal 4 year old pick up and carry a shot gun thru the house. Plus, if he did do it they would have made comments as to the childs arm or arms being broke because we all know that guns kick. This story does not add up.. Do your math guys..... If a 4 year old gets mad he throws a crying fit not strom thru the house and get a gun. I'm just not buying it. No way no how.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 02:06 PM
How about, if the babysitter was actually watching him, he wouldn't have got a gune to shoot him with.
Posted by: becki on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:59 PM
OMG I am not even sure what to say. I really think that Childern services should step in, because something is so not right about this whole deal.
Posted by: BillyJack on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:47 PM
What do you mean how did a 4-year old know how to load a gun? Our grandpappy's taught us about guns before we even learned our ABC's. Yep thats hows its always been and how we like it. You never know when he may have to defend himself from a terrorist or one of those other people.
Posted by: Nico on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:43 PM
And people like this wonder why gun control laws have so much support...
Posted by: billy on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:30 PM
i want that kid on my side when they try and take our guns away
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:10 PM
if gun is not loaded the child is extremly smart to be able to break down a shotgun load it shut the barrel back down pull back the hammer and pull the trigger,it will teach them to mess with him
Posted by: me on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:07 PM
Why would the 18 year old be charged with anything? That is absurd!!!! Perhaps whoever taught a 4 year old to load a shotgun should be charged. Also, the little guy obviously knew where the gun and the shells were located. Those are things a babysitter would have no control over.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:04 PM
CRAZY! Why on earth would anyone leave a shotgun or any gun for that matter within reach of a child? HOW would the child even know how to load the gun??? I think there should be more investigation into this case. The parents definitely should be held responsible. Blame the parents for this 'crime'!
Posted by: ???? on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:02 PM
What??? This is so bizzare! I know strange things can happen but come on! How in the world does a four year old even know how to load a shotgun? And who showed him and why? GEESH! This is nuts!
Posted by: Concerned in Ohio on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:00 PM
For God's sake...it was in Jackson----that should tell you something right there...
Posted by: gvn on Jan 5, 2009 at 01:00 PM
When I was 7 I tried to shoot a neighbor kid who had made a habit of mistreating my sister who was terminally ill . I shot at him point blank on our front porch with a double barrell 12 gauge and missed , it would have been a tradegy had I killed the boy .I was able to influence his poor treatment of my sister though , matter of fact I didnt see him much at all after that . Its not safe to mistreat anyone , as this young boys actions have shown .
Posted by: hmmm on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:59 PM
This is nuts, how would a 4 yr old know how to load a gun and who would leave it down in the childs reach. Parents need some training it sounds like not the child.
Posted by: Amy on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:38 PM
The parents should be charged in this case, not the babysitter! The parents are the ones who left a shotgun in a place where a 4 year old could access it. And how would a 4 year old know how to load a shot gun? If anyone is guilty of child endangerment, it would be the parents!
Posted by: D on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:34 PM
Are you kidding me! Why was there a shotgun so easily accesible to a 4 year old? Better yet, why has someone taught this child how to load it? This make me sick to my stomach, that a child would have so much anger and that their anger reaches a point that they pick up a gun. The only people to blame in the situation are the child's parents, because at 4 he wouldn't have an anger issue unless it was learned from his parents exposing him to it. I hope the child gets the help he needs and that it is not to late to turn him into a self respecting human in the long run. I really hate to say this, but maybe this child would be better off to be taken from his parents and given to someone that can teach him self control and love. Absolutley, NO CHILD should be able to grab a gun and just shoot, because something occured that they didn't like. I'm sorry that this had to happen. I'm really in shock.
Posted by: Shana on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:25 PM
That is crazy! How can you charge a 4 yr. old.Take his diapers away? That is crazy.And no child should have access of a shotgun.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:25 PM
The 18 year old might get charged and the 4 year old is the one who shot the gun and could have killed the 18 year old. Seems like to me the parents of the 4 year old need charged.
Posted by: I want to know on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:24 PM
Where in the heck were the parents? Why would a four year old even know how to load a gun? Sounds like the parents of the child need to be charged for having the shells down where the child could even reach them. All I can say is WOW!
Posted by: Michelle on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:15 PM
I think I would hold the parents responsible for this child's actions. Why was this gun so easily accessible?
Posted by: taco jim on Jan 5, 2009 at 12:13 PM
what in the world? I don't know the whole story or the enviroment that the 4 year old lives in but, wow!
WSAZ.com Most Popular / Most Comments
National Headlines - MSNBC.com
  • Palin to resign as Alaska governor

    July 3: Sarah Palin announces that she is stepping down as Alaska's governor.  (Nightly News)Sarah Palin announced Friday she plans to resign as governor of Alaska in a few weeks, saying she will try to "affect positive change" from outside government.
  • Cops hunt serial killer after 4 shootings
    Authorities in South Carolina are looking for a serial killer they believe has shot four people to death within 10 miles of each other over the past six days.
  • Johnny comes marching home — to no job
    National Guardsmen are coming home from Iraq to face a new enemy – a swooning economy that has landed like a KO’d heavyweight on the canvas of their home towns.
  • Powerful sedative found in Jackson’s home

    July 3: The powerful sedative Diprivan was reportedly found in Michael Jackson's home. NBC's Robert Bazell reports.  (MSNBC)A law enforcement official says the powerful sedative Diprivan was found in Michael Jackson's home. Diprivan is an intravenous anesthetic drug widely used in operating rooms to induce unconsciousness. Also known as Propofol, it's very unusual to have in a private home
  • July 4 fireworks shows go up in smoke

    July 3: Across America, fireworks displays are getting axed in favor of other budget priorities. NBC News' Kevin Tibbles reports.  (Today Show)With the recession eating away at state and local budgets everywhere, it will be a silent Fourth of July across the country for many communities that have canceled their annual fireworks shows.
  • Roddick wins war of Andys, will face Federer

    Andy Roddick lunges to return the ball during his victory over Andy Murray.American defeats British hope Murray in 4 sets to reach Wimbledon final
  • U.S. Marines push into Afghan towns

    U.S. Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 1st Battalion 5th Marines sit with Afghan residents of the village of Noghara, in the Nawa district of Helmand province on Friday. U.S. Marines moved into villages in Taliban strongholds in southern Afghanistan on Friday, meeting little resistance as they tried to win over local chiefs.
  • Iran cleric: U.K. Embassy staff to be tried

    Top Iranian cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, delivers a sermon during Friday prayers at the Tehran University campus in Iran.A top Iranian cleric said Friday that some of the detained Iranian staffers of the British Embassy in Tehran will be put on trial.
First Warning Hour-By-Hour Forecasts
+ Ashland, KY
+ Athens, OH
+ Beckley, WV
+ Charleston, WV
+ Clarksburg, WV
+ Clay, WV
+ Gallipolis, OH
+ Huntington, WV
+ Ironton, OH
+ Logan, WV
+ Morgantown, WV 		+ Paintsville, KY
+ Parkersburg, WV
+ Pikeville, KY
+ Pomeroy, OH
+ Portsmouth,OH
+ Ripley, WV
+ Spencer, WV
+ Sutton, WV
+ Wayne, WV
+ Wheeling, WV
+ Williamson, WV
SearchKOW Business of the Day
WSAZ.com Sponsor Sections & Links
Healthy Tri-State
Live a healthier lifestyle in 2009
SOMC
Very good things are happening here
Moms4Moms
By moms, for moms
WV Lottery
Nightly drawings and numbers
Big Sandy
For all your furniture and appliance needs