Toddler Accidentally Shoots Himself in the Leg with Mom’s Gun

While backing into a parking spot at an apartment complex in Miami Gardens, 33-year-old Christina Doyle heard a sudden gun bang.

When she turned around, she discovered her 2-year-old son bleeding from a gunshot wound to his leg. Police say the child had pulled a loaded handgun from Doyle’s purse, which she had left accessible in the back seat.

Charges Filed After the Gun Incident

Authorities charged Doyle with child neglect with great bodily harm, as well as culpable negligence, citing that the firearm was improperly stored and easily reached by her son.

She was arrested after voluntarily going to the police station. A judge set her bond at $5,000 and mandated that any visits with her four children be supervised during an ongoing investigation by the Department of Children and Families.

Family Calls It a Terrible Accident

The child’s great-grandmother, who spoke on behalf of the family, described the shooting as a tragic accident. She emphasized that Doyle has always been a caring mother and that the family is grateful the child survived. “We all thought he couldn’t possibly pull the trigger at that age,” she said.

While she acknowledged that the mother should have handled the firearm more responsibly, she questioned whether criminal charges were necessary in this particular case.

Gun Safety, Legal Warnings & Public Reminder

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mindy Glazer weighed in during the hearing, emphasizing the dangers of accessible firearms. “A child can gain access to anything,” she said, reminding people that keys, knives, and guns should always be secured—especially in vehicles.

The case highlights the broader risks when firearms are left within reach of children.

A Child on the Mend

Medical updates confirm that the toddler’s injuries, while serious, were not life-threatening.

He was treated at a local hospital and has since returned home to live with his grandmother, who is serving as his temporary guardian. Officials confirmed he is expected to recover fully, though the incident has sparked a wave of concern about firearm safety in everyday parenting situations.

Why It’s Resonating

This case underscores how quickly everyday routines can turn dangerous when firearms are not properly secured.

It raises questions about responsible gun ownership, especially in homes with young children, and the line between criminal liability and tragic human error. As the legal process unfolds, many are watching closely to see whether this case leads to broader discussions or reforms.

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