A 4-year-old girl named Evangaline Gunter met a tragic end as a result of being fatally shot by a woman in Tennessee.
The woman, Breanna Runions, claimed to police that the shooting was part of a misguided gun safety lesson for the young child. However, authorities have charged Runions with murder and aggravated child abuse.
Tennessee Tragedy: Fatal Shooting
The events unfolded at a residence in Rockwood on a fateful Sunday. Runions allegedly pushed a loaded gun against Evangaline’s chest and pulled the trigger, resulting in a fatal gunshot wound.
Runions, who was not related to the child, initially attempted to explain the incident as an attempt to teach the girl about firearm safety, even insisting that she had removed the magazine from her 9mm handgun prior to the lesson.
Investigators soon began to question Runions’ version of events after another woman present in the home revealed that Runions had been disciplining Evangaline and another child earlier that day. Both children were reportedly struck with a sandal and made to stand in a corner as punishment for not waking Runions and the other woman, and for eating food without permission.
Read more: 5 Unexpected College Courses Covered By Your Tuition: Taylor Swift, Aliens, And Beyond
Authorities to Examine Child’s Surroundings
The relationship between Runions, the other woman, and the children remains unclear, and authorities have not provided details about why the children were staying at home instead of with their parents.
The state Department of Children’s Services, which had reportedly responded to the residence in the past, is now investigating the living situation following this tragic incident.
Authorities have indicated that they will be looking into the circumstances leading up to the shooting and the environment in which the children were living.
According to a woman who identified herself as Evangaline’s biological mother, the child was residing in the house due to a court order and was only expected to stay there for a few more months.
This devastating incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the importance of responsible firearm handling and the critical need for ensuring the safety and well-being of children in all circumstances.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking event.