Child Shot After Accessing Unsecured Handgun in Poinciana

By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent
iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published April 10, 2026

Story Summary:

3½-year-old child found unsecured firearm inside home
Incident happened around 3:30 PM on Amber Way in Poinciana
Deputy provided life-saving aid before air transport
Child flown to Arnold Palmer Hospital, listed in stable condition
Investigation ongoing by Osceola County Sheriff’s Office

Child Injured After Accessing Unsecured Handgun in Poinciana

POINCIANA, Fla. — A young child is recovering after an accidental shooting involving an unsecured handgun Thursday afternoon, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigators say the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. on April 9, 2026, at a residence off Amber Way in Poinciana. Authorities report that a 3½-year-old child located an unsecured firearm inside the home and discharged it, resulting in a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

A 911 call was placed immediately, and the first deputy on scene rendered life-saving medical aid until paramedics arrived. Due to the severity of the injuries, the child was airlifted to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, where officials say the child is currently in stable condition.

Detectives with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit are actively investigating the circumstances leading up to the shooting, including how the firearm was accessed. Officials confirmed that the child’s family is cooperating fully with the investigation.

Authorities say the case remains open, and no charges have been announced at this time, pending the outcome of the investigation.

Gun Safety Reminder from Authorities

The sheriff’s office emphasized the importance of responsible firearm storage, noting that under Florida Statute 790.001, any person who stores or leaves a firearm accessible to a minor may be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor.

According to national data, 71 unintentional shootings involving children have occurred in the United States so far in 2026, resulting in 24 deaths and 48 injuries — highlighting an ongoing public safety concern.

Sheriff Christopher Blackmon reiterated that child safety remains a top priority, and the agency is taking proactive steps to prevent similar incidents.