A 6-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed a South Carolina woman Thursday after he found a loaded gun in the back seat of a car.
The little boy, whose name has not been released, shot 22-year-old Alexandra Santos in the back while sitting behind her in the car. (Via WBTV)
The boy was the son of Santos’ friend, who was driving the car at the time. The victim's mother told WHNS the driver placed blame on the victim’s ex-boyfriend but needs to take responsibility.
“We don't live in the wild, wild west no more. People kill people, now kids kill people, because parents are neglectful. And they don't watch or take care of their kids.” (Via WHNS)
Santos’ death marks the second time in a week in South Carolina where a child found a loaded gun inside a car and ended up killing someone.
Last week, a 5-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed 7-year-old Juliet Lynch with a gun he found in the trunk of the car. The boy reportedly thought it was a toy gun. (Via The Daily Mirror)
The recent accidental shootings have people questioning the newly instated gun laws in South Carolina.
As of February it is legal for gun owners to carry loaded guns in their cars. (Via Institute for Legislative Action)
According to the new state law anyone who can legally own a firearm can carry it loaded but it has to stay in a closed glove box, console, or trunk. If you have a concealed weapons permit you can keep the gun right here under your seat. (Via Handgunlaw.us)
WSPA talked to state Senator Larry Martin, who says the new rules shouldn’t change despite the tragedies.
Reporter: "Has it sparked any talk among legislatures to make any changes?"
Sen. Larry Martin: "No, I don’t think so I think the law is pretty adequate." (Via WSPA)
Police have ruled Santos’ death an accident. So far, it’s not clear whether there will be any arrests.
