A tragic incident has left a toddler wounded and a father behind bars in West Phoenix. As reported by FOX 10 Phoenix, the shooting occurred on July 9th around 10:40 p.m. near the intersection of 83rd Avenue and Camelback Road. Upon arrival, police officers discovered the toddler with a gunshot wound. The injured child has since been hospitalized with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
Initial investigations revealed a narrative of negligence. The father, 27-year-old Oscar Guerra, is said to have left a firearm unsecured and within reach of the young child. According to statements obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix, "The family at the home was interviewed at which time it was learned that the father of the toddler, identified as 27-year-old Oscar Guerra, left the gun out and accessible to the victim prior to the accidental shooting," said Sgt. Rob Scherer of the Phoenix Police Department. Guerra is currently being held on child abuse charges following the event.
Phoenix police also notified the Arizona Department of Child Safety, which is now conducting its own independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. This separate inquiry will delve into the safety and welfare of the child involved. As AZFamily reported, the Department of Child Safety's involvement is standard procedure in such cases, where the well-being of a minor may be in question due to the actions or inactions of a caregiver.
