Boy kills his 6-year-old sister after finding an unsecured firearm

Boy accidentally shoots sister to death in Alabama mobile home community after finding an unsecured firearm.

Boy kills his 6-year-old sister after finding an unsecured firearm

Authorities in Alabama are investigating after a boy accidentally shot his 6-year-old sister at a deputy’s home Monday morning.

The Shelby County sheriff said a 3-year-old boy found an unsecured firearm at a residence in a mobile home community and accidentally discharged the weapon, striking a 6-year-old brother.

The 6-year-old was transported to the hospital but died shortly after arriving, the sheriff’s office said.

The girl has been identified as Bella Claire Callaway, a kindergartner at T.R. Simmons Elementary School in Jasper.

“This was a truly tragic morning for Shelby County,” said Sheriff John Samaniego. “Our agency mourns with the family of this little girl. I would like to thank the Alabaster Fire Department, County Fire and Rescue 17, and Southeast Shelby Rescue for their assistance.”

The Helena police chief confirmed that one of his officers lives in the house.

“There was nothing to indicate that his service weapon or any of his issued equipment was involved in this tragedy,” said Major Clay Hammac. “It involved a personal firearm that was left unsecured in the house.”

Hammac said they found no evidence of criminal negligence leading up to the shooting and no charges are expected.

“I can say with absolute certainty that this case hurts,” Hammac said.

“It hurts the community at large. It hurts our first responders who are grieving with this family.”