Young child fatally shoots one sibling, injures another

A 5-year-old girl died and an 8-year-old boy was critically injured by shotgun blasts.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:54pm

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A young child in Brookville, Kansas gained access to a loaded, unsecured shotgun and fatally shot a 5-year-old girl and critically injured an 8-year-old boy. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation into the incident, which occurred on March 28.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of proper gun storage and safety, especially in homes with young children. It raises questions about how to prevent such accidents and ensure the safety of all family members.

The details

According to the Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office, a 911 dispatcher received a call around 3:15 pm CT on March 28 reporting that two children had been severely injured in a shooting. First responders found that a young child had picked up a loaded, unsecured shotgun and fired, striking the 5-year-old girl who died at the scene. The 8-year-old boy was flown to a hospital in Wichita in critical condition.

  • The incident occurred on March 28, 2026 around 3:15 pm CT.
  • The 5-year-old girl died at the scene.
  • The 8-year-old boy was flown to a hospital 100 miles away in Wichita and was listed in critical condition.

The players

Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the initial 911 call.

Kansas Bureau of Investigation

The state law enforcement agency that has taken the lead in investigating the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Keeping them behind a locked door, whether it be a gun cabinet or a gun safe.”

— Ellsworth County Sheriff Kenny Bernard

“When you're done with the shoot, you should empty your firearm in the field, carry it back to your vehicle, safely store it in the vehicle, away from the ammunition as well.”

— Ellsworth County Sheriff Kenny Bernard

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of responsible gun ownership and storage, especially in homes with young children. It serves as a sobering reminder that unsecured firearms can have devastating consequences, and that gun safety education and preventative measures are essential to protect families.