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SPOTSYLVANIA, VA — A third-grade student at Lee Hill Elementary School unintentionally discharged a loaded handgun inside a classroom last week, prompting a swift response from school staff and law enforcement. Fortunately, no students or staff were injured.
According to a press release from the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 10:50 a.m. when the child reached into their backpack and unintentionally pulled the trigger on a handgun that had been placed inside. Early interviews with the student indicated there was no intent to cause harm.
The classroom teacher immediately evacuated all 26 students and contacted the on-site School Resource Officer. A subsequent investigation revealed that the child had found an unsecured, loaded handgun inside their home and placed it in their school backpack.
Following the investigation, both parents of the child—Ciara Armstead, 36, and Terrence Carroll Jr., 34—were charged on April 7. Each faces one misdemeanor count of recklessly leaving a loaded, unsecured firearm so as to endanger the life or limb of a child under the age of 14, and one felony count of willfully or negligently endangering the life of a child while having custody. Both were released on a $5,000 unsecured bond and are scheduled to appear in Spotsylvania County Juvenile Domestic Court on April 11.
Authorities confirmed that the child will not be charged, in consultation with Spotsylvania County Juvenile Intake and the Commonwealth’s Attorney. The parents have cooperated with investigators throughout the process.
This incident highlights the critical importance of responsible firearm storage, particularly in homes with children. Firearm owners have a legal and moral responsibility to prevent unauthorized access to their firearms. Secure storage solutions—such as lock boxes, safes, and other modern gun security devices—can significantly reduce the risk of unintentional access and discharge.
For more information on how to properly secure your firearms at home, in your vehicle, or while traveling, see our related guide: Secure Your Guns: My Setup for Home, Vehicle, and Travel.
