Sean S.
Pembroke Pines, florida
This story discusses Unintentional Shootings, Kids in the Home, and Safe Storage.
June 5, 1989. When I got home, I was looking for my video games to play. I knew where they were hidden since I was such a curious little kid.
But, instead of the video games, I found my dad’s gun. Pulled it out, thinking -- like I would with any other toy -- that I’d try to play with it. My sister was running out of the room, just as the gun went off. She died, instantly.
Even thirty years later, I still remember it all like it was yesterday. I pray in the morning, and make sure I forgive myself and make sure I know that I was just a kid, and it was an accident. But something like this, it can happen in a millisecond, and change your life forever.
By storing guns securely -- locked, unloaded and separately from ammunition -- we can keep our families safe and make sure they don’t experience the same tragedy.
A MOMENT OF CRISIS CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, text or call 988, or chat at 988LifeLine.org.
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Mark H.
I actually had an incident where somebody was trying to kick down my front door. People have asked me how much longer did it take to get that gun because I had it locked away. And I said realistically, an extra two seconds.
This story discusses Kids in the Home and Safe Storage.
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