A 2-year-old boy died after a shooting inside a parked vehicle in Fond du Lac County, where investigators say a sibling discovered a loaded gun while left unattended.
FOND DU LAC COUNTY, WI – A quiet residential driveway became the scene of a fatal incident Thursday morning after a 2-year-old boy was shot while inside a family vehicle, according to the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were dispatched to the home following a report of a child suffering from a gunshot wound, prompting an urgent response that included a request for a medical helicopter.
First responders located the child with critical injuries and attempted lifesaving measures at the scene. The boy was pronounced dead before he could be transported to a hospital.
Children left in vehicle, gun discovered
According to a statement shared by the sheriff’s office, three young children were inside a vehicle parked in the driveway when the incident occurred. While a parent briefly went inside the home, a 4-year-old child allegedly located a loaded firearm in the vehicle’s center console.
The sheriff’s office said the weapon later “discharged,” resulting in the fatal injury to the 2-year-old. Officials noted that the investigation remains ongoing, but authorities do not currently suspect foul play. The family is cooperating with investigators.
Officials indicated that criminal charges could be considered once the investigation is complete.
Victim identified through family fundraiser
While law enforcement has not formally released the child’s identity, a GoFundMe campaign created by a Fond du Lac family identified the boy as Crewe Zahradnik. The fundraiser describes the incident as a “heartbreaking accident” and an “unimaginable tragedy,” with proceeds intended to help cover funeral expenses, grief counseling, and lost wages.
The sheriff’s office has not provided additional details about the firearm or how it was stored inside the vehicle.
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