Police Believe 4-Year-Old Girl Died After Accidentally Shooting Herself
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- On Friday, a community came together to remember a 4-year-old girl who died after being shot in the face in her North Philadelphia home.
A very passionate and somber vigil took place on Friday afternoon on the 1800 block of N. 20th Street in North Philadelphia.
Tears, prays and moments of silence took place for a 4-year-old girl who police believe shot herself. Mothers, feeling the pain of another mother's loss, gathered to remember the little girl.
Investigators now believe that the child accidentally shot herself in the head in her North Philadelphia home around noon on Thursday. She was found in an upstairs bedroom.
Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Community activist Mel Wells took the vigil as an opportunity to urge residents to put down their guns and keep them out of the reach of children. He hopes to prevent another tragedy.
"We can start on the ground by just telling people please put your guns away from your children. Hide them tonight. Keep them out of the way of the kids and we're asking our men, or anybody, please don't come out with your guns and point them out while the women and the children and our seniors are around," Wells said.
Many of the community members gathered held balloons that were pink and white that they released in honor of the 4-year-old.
Police are saying that they are not sure if any charges will be filed in this case. They say right now is too early to say.