Police: Boy Accidentally Shoots Himself in Annandale

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- Fairfax County Police say that a 12-year-old boy accidentally shot himself late Wednesday night in Annandale.

Mason patrol officers responded to the 7800 block of Thor Drive (see map below) late Wednesday night, just after 11 p.m., for a report of a shot person, according to police.

When they arrived, police found a 12-year-old boy in front of the address, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the lower body, police said.

Officers used their issued trauma kit to render first aid until rescue arrived, they said. Police said the gunshot injury was non-life-threatening.

A preliminary investigation suggests that the wound was unintentionally self-inflicted, police said. The investigation is ongoing, but there was never any apparent threat to public safety, according to police.

When contacted, police would not release any other details.

There is no word on who called police, what kind of gun it was, who owned the gun, if it is legally registered, where it was kept or how the boy happened to gain access to it.

Also, it appears the boy was home alone, but information was not available from police on whether that was the case or not.

Children in Fairfax County age 11 to 12 years old may be left alone for up to 3 hours, are not to be left alone late at night or in circumstances requiring inappropriate responsibility.

The Fairfax County Police Department has seen an increase in firearms related accidents which occur in residences, according to the department and offers these gun safety tips:

• Always treat guns as if they are loaded. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. Whether you are shooting or simply handling a gun, never point it at yourself or others. Common sense should dictate which direction is safest. In a single family or townhouse for example, the lowest floor of the residence such as the basement is generally the safest place to point the gun. Being mindful of the fact that a bullet can penetrate ceilings, floors, walls, windows and doors.
• Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. Whether loading or unloading a gun, rest your finger outside the trigger guard alongside the gun. Do not touch the trigger.
• Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use. If you do not know how to check to see if a gun is unloaded, leave it alone. Carefully secure it, being certain to point it safely and to keep you finger off the trigger. Seek the advice of a person in the household who is knowledgeable in handling firearms for assistance.
• Keep firearms secured in approved gun lockers or safes. Keep ammunition separated. By separating ammunition from the firearm, it will further ensure safety in the household in case there is any unauthorized handling of the firearm. Gun locks are also encouraged as an added level of security.

Map shows approximate location, not exact location; police were called to the 7800 block of Thor Drive in Annandale: