Minnesota boy, 3, dies after accidentally shooting self, sheriff says
DEER CREEK, Minn. — A 3-year-old boy is dead after he accidentally shot himself Sunday night in west-central Minnesota, according to the Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office.
The shooting happened at about 5:40 p.m. in Oak Valley Township near Deer Creek, about 160 miles northwest of the Twin Cities.
The boy was taken to a Wadena hospital, where he was pronounced dead on Monday morning. The sheriff's office says it is still investigating.
According to a GoFundMe set up for the victim's family, his name is Rudy Sweere.
"Please, prayerfully consider helping the Sweere family during this time as they prepare to celebrate the vibrant life of Rudy," said the fundraiser's organizer.
As of Monday afternoon, the GoFundMe has raised nearly $4,000 for the boy's family.
The sheriff's office didn't note if any arrests were made in Sweere's death, or if anyone is expected to face criminal charges.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says unintentional firearm injuries are the leading cause of death for people ages 1-17.
