Columbus, OH – A tragic incident in Columbus, Ohio has left a 3-year-old boy dead after he accidentally shot himself with an unsecured firearm while his mother slept next to the man who brought the gun into their home. Authorities have charged the boy’s mother with involuntary manslaughter following the fatal shooting.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers responded to a 911 call early Monday morning placed by Carley Dials, 29, after discovering her son, Cartier Smith, 3, with a gunshot wound. He was rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in critical condition but was pronounced dead less than an hour later.
Court documents indicate that the firearm had been brought to the home by 31-year-old Sean Perrin, who reportedly left the apartment before police arrived.
“The child got up onto the bed, found the gun, and unintentionally shot himself,” the police report noted.
Mother’s Statement and Charges
Dials told authorities she found the gun around 3 a.m. before going to bed and attempted to hide it between the bed mattress and the wall. Hours later, just before 9 a.m., Cartier discovered the firearm while in the same room with Dials and Perrin.
Dials was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter, booked into Franklin County Jail, and posted $50,000 bond following her court appearance. Both Dials and Perrin are scheduled for a preliminary hearing on October 2.
Gun Owner’s Background and Arrest
Perrin, who had a prior 2019 gun-related conviction and was on parole at the time of the incident, was eventually apprehended by police. He now faces charges for having a weapon under disability and violating parole. Perrin remains in custody at James A. Karnes Correction Center on $750,000 bond.
Impact on Family
Authorities reported that an older sibling was taken into the custody of Franklin County Children’s Services. Officials are reminding parents about the dangers of unsecured firearms and the importance of keeping weapons out of reach of children.
Safety Reminder
Experts stress that even short periods of inattention with a firearm accessible can have devastating consequences. Families are urged to:
- Keep guns locked and secured at all times.
- Use gun safes or locked storage for ammunition.
- Ensure children are educated about the dangers of firearms.
Conclusion
The Columbus community is reeling from the accidental death of 3-year-old Cartier Smith. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the firearm and remind residents about the critical importance of safe gun storage.
What are your thoughts on gun safety and parental responsibility in such tragedies? Share your opinions in the comments below.
