Two children were hurt Friday afternoon in Orange County after an off-duty sheriff's deputy's firearm went off while the deputy was cleaning it, according to sheriff's officials. Both kids were rushed to a hospital and were listed in stable condition. One child was treated for a gunshot wound, while the other was injured by flying shrapnel.
According to WESH 2 News, a single round accidentally discharged around 12:55 p.m. Friday while the off-duty deputy was handling the weapon. The Orange County Sheriff's Office has not released the deputy's name or the exact location of the incident. Deputies who responded said one child was struck by a bullet and the other was hit by shrapnel.
Investigation under way
The sheriff's office said the case remains "active and ongoing," according to WESH 2 News. Investigators have not yet said whether the deputy could face criminal charges or internal discipline, and officials are keeping further details under wraps for now.
Local context
This latest incident lands in a community that is already on edge over children and gun violence. In early June, two toddlers were found dead inside an Orange County apartment in a separate case that drew widespread attention, according to WFTV. That tragedy intensified local debate about how often kids are placed in the crosshairs of adult gun ownership.
What to watch
Investigators say more information will be released as the inquiry moves forward. This story will be updated as the sheriff's office or additional outlets provide new details.
