Two Accused Of Child Abuse In Accidental Death Of Toddler

TUSON, AZ — Two people were arrested Tuesday in Tucson after a 3-year-old child was found seriously injured from what police call an accidental gunshot wound. The boy later died at Banner University Medical Center.

In a news release, Tucson Police said officers were sent to the 800 block of West Roger Road around 1 p.m. on Tuesday after a shooting was reported.

When police arrived, they found the boy, identified as Bryson Skinner, with a gunshot wound. Officers and medics from Tucson Fire Department gave the child first aid and transported him to Banner University, where he died from his injuries.

Police said the boy's death appears to be an accident and that the gunshot wound was self-inflicted after the child found a handgun in the house.

The boy's death is being investigated by the Child Physical Abuse Unit and Homicide Unit at Tucson Police Department. Police said detectives interviewed 19-year-old William Skinner — a family member of the boy — and his 22-year-old girlfriend, Valerie Faidley. Police also searched the house on a warrant.

Both Skinner and Faidley were arrested and charged with felony child abuse. They were taken to Pima County Jail.