7-year-old injured by accidental gunfire in Maryland classroom
A seven-year-old student was injured on Wednesday morning, February 3, 2026, when a firearm he reportedly brought to Freetown Elementary School in Glen Burnie, Maryland, discharged inside his classroom. The incident occurred at approximately 8:25 a.m. in the elementary school, situated around 15 miles south of Baltimore.
According to the Anne Arundel County Police, the boy was holding the firearm when it accidentally went off, resulting in an injury to his hand. Fortunately, despite the presence of additional students in the classroom during the event, no one else was injured. Following the discharge of the firearm, a teacher acted promptly to secure the weapon and provided assistance to the injured student. Authorities reported that the child was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital, where he received treatment for his non-life-threatening injury.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation. Law enforcement officials have indicated that they believe the shooting was accidental. Captain Jaclyn Davis of the Anne Arundel County Police emphasized the potential for a more tragic outcome, stating that this incident could have resulted in significant injuries or fatalities. She expressed gratitude that the situation concluded with relatively minor injuries and praised the quick response of the school staff.
The precise manner in which the boy obtained the firearm remains unclear. Police have suggested that it appears the child may have acquired the weapon from his home. Investigators are examining the potential for legal consequences, including the possibility of charges being filed against the firearm’s owner if it is determined that the weapon was improperly stored and left accessible to the child.
As of the late morning on the day of the incident, authorities indicated that there was no ongoing threat to student safety. The school district confirmed that Freetown Elementary School would resume its normal schedule on Thursday, February 4, 2026, as planned. Meanwhile, the community grapples with the implications of the event, highlighting the ongoing concerns surrounding gun safety and access for children.
This incident underscores the importance of secure firearm storage, as well as the need for continued dialogue regarding youth access to firearms in educational settings. The ongoing investigation will aim to clarify the circumstances surrounding this alarming occurrence while ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff in the future.
This situation is a reminder of the critical responsibility of gun owners to prevent accidents and safeguard vulnerable individuals, particularly children.
