Detroit Dad Charged After 11-Year-Old Son Shoots Self While Home Alone
DETROIT (WWJ) - A Detroit man suspected of giving his child a rifle "to protect himself" has been charged after the 11-year-old boy shot himself in the butt while playing with the gun.
Prosecutors say 37-year-old Chris Navarrette is scheduled to be arraigned Saturday in 34th District Court on charges of second-degree child abuse, careless use of a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm and felony firearm.
Authorities say Navarrette left his son alone Thursday at their home in the 3900 block of Vernor Highway, near West Grand Boulevard in southwest Detroit, while he went to work. Around 8:30 a.m., police say the boy came in contact with the gun, which was left unsecured in a bedroom, and sustained a gunshot wound to his backside.
The child was taken to a local hospital where he received treatment for his injuries.
Navarrette returned home after being notified of the shooting. Detroit Police Capt. Whitney Walton told WWJ's Mike Campbell that Navarrette made statements indicating he purposely gave his son the rifle to protect himself. According to reports, Navarrette and his son just recently moved to the area from California.
Officials say relatives have been contacted on behalf of the child.
An investigation is ongoing.