A young child is currently in the hospital recuperating after suffering a gunshot wound. According to officials from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred when the child accidentally discharged a firearm near Lem Turner Road and Capper Road.

Officers said they arrived Thursday afternoon to reports of an accidental shooting on Lem Turner near Capper Road. 

When they arrived, they found the child suffering from a gunshot wound. They were taken to the hospital and are recovering from their injuries.

Investigators said they found the child had access to the gun and accidentally shot it. 

Officers are continuing to investigate to determine if further action is required. 

The agency is urging parents to practice safe gun ownership, saying the shooting could have ended in tragedy.

“We cannot emphasize enough the importance of safeguarding your children by ensuring firearms are securely stored,” stated JSO in a post on X. “If you possess a firearm, make sure it is kept out of children’s reach. To assist with this, your JSO provides free gun locks at each of our six substations to ensure your gun is stored safely.”