3-year-old Shot in Head Outside Saint Anthony Apartment Complex

May 15

A 3-year-old boy was rushed to the hospital with a gunshot wound to his head Thursday evening, Saint Anthony police confirm.

Police say a 911 hang-up call came in just before 6:40 p.m. from the 2500 block of Silver Lane at the Equinox apartment complex in Saint Anthony.

Dispatchers noted sounds of commotion in the background, including someone saying a hospital was needed. Officers arrived within two minutes but were unable to locate anyone in need of help or signs of a disturbance.

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Roughly 30 minutes later, around 7:08 p.m., police were notified that a 3-year-old boy had arrived at a local hospital with what was initially reported as an accidental gunshot wound to his head. Detectives interviewed two adults who said they were near the boy when the gun went off. Investigators determined the shooting occurred inside a vehicle parked outside Equinox Apartments.

Officers collected evidence at the hospital and the apartment complex. The Hennepin County Crime Lab is assisting with processing and the investigation remains open. Anyone with information is asked to contact Saint Anthony PD at 612-782-3350.

UPDATE | Friday, May 16

KARE-TV reports the boy underwent surgery and was in stable condition late Thursday. Police Chief Jeff Spiess said it’s believed the boy got his hands on the loaded firearm while inside the vehicle and accidentally discharged it, shooting himself in the head. Charges may be filed in the coming days.

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