PRESS RELEASE
August 5, 2016
FCSO INVESTIGATES CHILD DEATH
Florence County Investigators have completed the investigation into the fatal shooting of a child in Coward, SC on Tuesday, August 2, 2016. At approximately 5:00 PM deputies responded to a 911 call that a child had received a gunshot wound at 4312 Circle Drive, Coward, S.C. When deputies arrived on scene they found two child victims; one twelve (12) year old victim with a significant wound and a seven (7) year old victim with non-life threatening wound. The twelve (12) year old victim did not survive. The seven (7) year old victim was treated and released.
Investigators believe that an eleven (11) year old resident of the location gained access to a handgun and accidently discharged the same, with a single round striking both victims. At the time of this incident, all three children were being supervised by a fifteen (15) year old sitter.
Florence County Coroner Keith von Lutcken ordered that an autopsy be conducted on the body of the deceased child and has since ruled the cause of death accidental. FCSO investigators have also concluded that no foul play was involved. Following extensive consultation with all parties, no criminal charges are anticipated at this time.
END
Major Michael M. Nunn
General Counsel/P.I.O.
