Teen dead after apparent accidental shooting with a shotgun
KEARNS, Utah — (KUTV) — A teen is dead after what police say was an accidental shooting involving a shotgun.
Two brothers were playing with a shotgun on Monday morning, believing it wasn't loaded, said Sgt. Melody Gray with the Unified Police Department.
"It is a horrible situation. You have children that are getting ready to go to school and their entire world was shattered," Gray said. The boys' family was home at the time of the shooting.
"Our 16-year-old victim had that gun in his hand and pointed the gun at himself and unfortunately shot himself and he is deceased," Gray said. The other brother involved was 15.
Calls to police originated around 8:15 a.m. for the shooting that occurred near 5000 West and 5400 South.
"Everything appears to point to this being accidental," Gray said.
She said there is nothing to indicate the teen was suicidal in any way and said the investigation is wrapping up. Crime scene cleaners are at the scene so the family doesn't have to deal with the aftermath.
"This absolutely can be avoided if we remember to treat guns as they as they deserve. They are deadly weapons. We need to always assume they are loaded." Gray said. "Never point them at anyone. Do not pull those triggers. Bad things happen."
The family told 2News they were a gun-free home. Gray said investigators will trace the gun to figure out how it got into the hands of the teens.
Utah law prohibits anyone under the age of 18 to possess a dangerous weapon. The law also prohibits gun sales to minors unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Editor's note: Police initially identified the deceased teen's step-brother as 17 years old. New reports indicate he is 15. The juvenile has been arrested in connection with his step-brother's death, which police no longer believe to be accidental.
2News Reporter RaeAnn Christensen will bring you more on the story on KUTV at 5 p.m. Follower her on Facebook and Twitter.
