Police: Toddler killed after 4-year-old brother thought gun was a toy

LOUISA COUNTY, VA (WTVR) — A Virginia toddler died Tuesday after his older brother accidentally shot him with a gun the boy thought was a toy, according to the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office.

It’s not yet clear how the 4-year-old boy had access to the weapon, which he fired Tuesday morning, striking his 2-year-old brother – identified as Tyler Aponte – in the chest, according to Major Donald A. Lowe.

“It’s of paramount importance to make sure your guns are secured and out of the reach of children and everything,” Major Lowe said. “At least have them unloaded or a safety lock on them, whatever you have to do to keep them from being discharged accidentally.”

The children’s mother was at home when the shooting occurred, authorities said.

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