2-Year-Old Boy Shot Himself, Mother Wanted By Police On Neglect Charge

MANASSAS, VA — A 2-year-old boy shot himself in the hand in Manassas on Oct. 26, according to the Prince William County Police Department. Now, authorities are looking for the boy's mother, who is charged with felony child neglect.

The boy's injuries were not life-threatening, police said.

Police identified the mother as 39-year-old Christalle Phillips Moat. She is charged with one count of felony child neglect.

The shooting occurred around 2 p.m. on Oct. 26 at a home in the 7600 block of Monitor Court in Manassas. The boy was left unattended and found an unsecured firearm in the home, and shot himself in the hand, according to the police report.

Phillips Moat and other family members took the boy to a hospital, where police investigators and child protective services were contacted. Authorities obtained warrants for Phillips Moat on Tuesday, though they have been unable to locate her so far.

Phillips Moat is about 5 feet, 1 inch tall and weighs about 105 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with more information about her whereabouts can contact the police department at 703-792-7000. Tips can also be submitted online.

The CDC hosts an array of resources to prevent child neglect, and to help victims who had adverse childhood experiences. More information is available on their website.