Sanford police offer gun safety class after 6-year-old's death

Sanford police offer gun safety class — Sanford police are working to educate the community about gun safety a week after a 6-year-old girl got her hands on a gun and accidentally killed herself.

About two-dozen residents packed the department’s gun safety class Wednesday afternoon.

Adults and children were welcome to the free class.

“I am a new gun owner, so I just wanted to, just learn what to do and what not to do,” said Pina Caplan.

Free locks were provided to those who attended the meeting.

Part of the class was teaching gun owners how to protect their children from getting to weapons.

“It is an opportunity for us to talk about what is going on and how they can protect not only themselves, but protect their children as well,” said Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith.

Last week, A’Letha Burke, 6, accidentally shot herself in the shoulder while handling an unsecured gun, police said.

Erick Williams was arrested in connection with the case.

Last month, a 2-year-old was shot in the hand while her mother and another man were supposed to be watching her.

The toddler’s mother, DeVolia Sims, 23, and Aaron Davis, 26, were arrested.

“To me, it is just senseless and tragic. That is a death or an injury that didn’t need to happen,” Caplan said.

Smith said the large turnout for the class leaves him feeling optimistic that accidental shootings can be prevented.

“That shows that there is an interest in insuring that guns are put away safely and that people are taking the initiative to do what is right,” said Smith.

Sanford police said residents have the opportunity to get locks for free at the police department any time.

Cox Media Group