Lodi Police Investigating After Child Fires SWAT Officer's Gun
LODI (CBS13) - Police are investigating after an officer's gun was accidentally discharged by a child at August's Literacy Fair in downtown Lodi.
"This should have never happened, especially in an environment where children were present," Lodi Police Chief Mark Helms said.
On Aug. 24, SWAT Officer Robert Rench was displaying tactical equipment to children at the Lodi Public Library. A boy -- around 6 to 8 years old -- walked up behind Rench and pulled the trigger of his holstered handgun, say officials.
As a result, the bullet grazed the side of the officer's leg.
The boy then fled and his identity is unknown.
Helms says the department is focusing on learning more about the incident and how to prevent something similar from happening again.
"As peace officers, we have a responsibility to the public to ensure our weapons and equipment are properly safeguarded," he said.
Police want to speak with the boy to better understand how the incident occurred.
"We're fortunate this event didn't result in a tragedy," said Helms.
No other injuries were reported.
