Police are investigating an incident where a 17 month old toddler was injured in Temuka at approximately 6.30pm on Friday 3 October 2014.
The toddler was taken to hospital by ambulance and is reported to be recovering. The father was retrieving his air rifle from a bedroom wardrobe when the toddler appears to have been shot in the back of the head.
Canterbury Rural Area Commander, Inspector Dave Gaskin, says “While owners of air rifles are not required to have a firearms licence, Police would encourage them to follow the requirements and rules in relation to the safe handling of fire arms set out in the Arms Act 1983.”
“All firearms should be stored unloaded, in a secure cabinet and when handling always treat them as if they are loaded and ensure that the barrel is pointed in a safe direction. Even though air rifles are available for purchase without a valid firearms licence, they are not toys and can cause serious harm when used incorrectly.”
Police investigations into the incident are continuing and no further comment will be made at this time.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404