Miami-Dade Toddler in Recovery After Accidental Shooting with Flare Gun

Miami-Dade, FL — A terrifying incident occurred involving a toddler, 2-year-old Justin Hernandez, who is now recovering after accidentally shooting himself with a flare gun at his family’s home. The incident took place while Justin’s father, Lazaro Hernandez, was working on his boat in the backyard, located near Northwest 103rd Street and 32nd Avenue.

The Incident

According to Lazaro Hernandez, his son was nearby when he managed to get a hold of the flare gun. Before his father could intervene, the flare gun discharged, resulting in burns to Justin’s hand and chest. Reflecting on the frightening moment, Hernandez expressed to Local 10 News in Spanish, “At the moment, I was very scared.”

Emergency Response and Recovery

Emergency services responded swiftly to the situation, with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue dispatching a helicopter to transport Justin to the hospital for treatment. Thankfully, despite the seriousness of the accident, Lazaro shared that his son is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery. Medical personnel have remained optimistic about Justin’s condition, and Hernandez anticipated that his son would be released from the hospital later that evening.

Safety Concerns and Investigations

Flare guns are typically carried on boats as essential safety equipment for emergency signaling. However, this incident underscores the potential dangers these devices can pose, especially in the hands of young children. In light of the accident, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has launched an investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure the child’s safety. Two representatives from DCF visited the Hernandez residence on Friday to assess the situation. Initial findings suggest that the incident appears to be an unfortunate accident, although investigations are ongoing to confirm all details and determine if any safety protocols were overlooked.

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Conclusion

The recovery of 2-year-old Justin Hernandez after this accidental shooting is a relief for his family, but it also serves as a critical reminder of the potential dangers associated with safety equipment like flare guns. As investigations continue, the incident highlights the importance of child safety and the need for vigilance when it comes to securing potentially dangerous items in households. The Hernandez family is hopeful for Justin’s swift recovery and looks forward to putting this frightening incident behind them.

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