Ville Platte, La. (KADN)- A three-year-old girl got her hands on a loaded firearm and shot herself to death Thursday.
Ville Platte Police Chief Al Perry Thomas says they received a call at around 1:15 pm from the Park View Apartments that a child had been shot. "They learned that the three-year-old toddler had suffered a gunshot wound. Because of the significance of her injury, she was then flown out of Ville Platte to baton rouge."
Unfortunately, the little girl didn't make it. 19-year-old Nathan Ben has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of a three-year-old girl with criminal negligence and negligent homicide.
Though the Chief says the story doesn't end there. "That person was in the house with the victim, along with someone else and there was a weapon. That we didn't find that we couldn't find. Or that we haven't found as of yet."
"It was a tragic," expressed Maverick Joseph.
Joseph says it's devastating to hear yet another young soul has been taken off the earth so fast. Making it a point the community must be there for the family.
"The mother, the father, the grandmother, and the whole family you know. They should have a vigil for the child and the family. Give them some support, give them some encouragement," said Joseph.
Chief Thomas says in the initial investigation, the little girl accidentally shot herself. Though a reminder to gun owners with children to keep firearms locked up.
"Small kids are curious, they are just curious by nature. So put it away, lock it away. There is no need for it to be within a three-year-old's reach," emphasized the Chief.
Chief Thomas says they are still investigating, be sure to tune into NEWS15 which will keep you posted.
