By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
An investigation is ongoing in Lawrence County after a troubling incident involving two children has sparked renewed concerns about firearm safety in the home.
Authorities say a 13-year-old boy is recovering after being accidentally shot by his 6-year-old brother at their family residence in Trinity. According to Lawrence County Sheriff Max Sanders, the younger child retrieved a .556-caliber rifle from a bedroom and discharged it, striking his older brother in the shoulder.
Deputies responded to the home around 5:30 p.m. Saturday. The injured teen was transported to a hospital and is expected to recover from non-life-threatening injuries.
The children are the sons of State Representative Ernie Yarbrough, who represents District 7. Officials confirmed that the Alabama Department of Human Resources has been notified, as required in incidents involving minors. The case will now be reviewed by the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office. At this time, no charges have been announced.
While the investigation continues, the incident highlights broader concerns about firearm storage and safety in households with children. Experts consistently emphasize the importance of keeping firearms locked, unloaded, and secured out of reach.
For families across Alabama, this moment serves as a critical reminder: prevention starts at home. Safe storage and awareness can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy.