Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Press Release:
On April 9, 2026, at approximately 3:30 pm, a 3 1/2 -year-old child was able to find an unsecured handgun at a residence off Amber Way in Poinciana. 911 was called and the first deputy on scene provided life saving medical aid until paramedics arrived. The child was flown to Arnold Plamer Hospital and is currently listed in stable condition.
Detectives with our violent crime unit are conducting a thorough investigation as to the events prior to and involving the shooting. The family of the child is cooperating with detectives. We will complete our investigation and determine what charges, if any will be made.
So far in 2026, in the U.S. 71 unintentional shootings by children have occurred that have resulted in 24 deaths and 48 injuries.
We want to remind gun owners that they are required under state law to safely secure their guns out of the hands of minors. 790.001 requires any person who stores or leaves a firearm in the access of a minor commits a second-degree misdemeanor.
Sheriff Chris Blackmon has made children’s safety a priority since becoming sheriff. The Osceola Sheriff’s Office will hold a free gun lock giveaway on May 1, 2026, at the Main office at 2601 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, for any Osceola resident that needs to secure a handgun to make it safe in a home where children are present. More information will be posted to the community about this event.
SOURCE: OSCEOLA SHERIFF’S OFFICE
