Even in Mayberry, tragedy can strike

Sadly, the following story is true and actually occurred here in my new home town. If you have children or even occasionally entertain children in your home, please keep guns locked away and out of reach. If you are a parent, make sure you educate your children on gun safety. Read on:


Fla. Boy Charged in Accidental Shooting



BUSHNELL, Fla. (AP) - A 13-year-old boy accused of accidentally shooting his younger brother during a game of ``cowboys and Indians'' has been charged with manslaughter.

Mitchell Maddox was playing with his three younger siblings in February when he allegedly shot 7-year-old David Lanford in the head with a .410-caliber pump-action shotgun, officials said.





The state attorney's office decided to bring formal charges last week.

``There was no intent to harm but careless action that reached the level of criminality,'' Sumter County Sheriff's Capt. Gary Brannen said.

The children's parents were not at home during the shooting. Mitchell carried his brother's body next door to call 911 since the family didn't have a phone, officials said.



04/11/04 16:43




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