By admin 
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS/Gray News) – A 3-year-old boy died Thursday after accidentally shooting himself with a gun, and his uncle is now facing charges, authorities said.
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The Columbia Police Department said the accident happened on Bailey Street near The Colony apartments. Law enforcement received a call around 5:40 p.m., according to Deputy Chief Melron Kelly.
“Richland County deputies responded to the scene,” Kelly said. “Once arrived on scene, they found a toddler that had been struck by gunfire.”
The child had a gunshot wound to the upper body and was taken to a local hospital, where he later died.
On Friday, the child was identified as 3-year-old Erin Myers by the Richland County Coroner’s Office.
Authorities said the boy shot himself after his uncle, 21-year-old Tyrone Thompson Jr., left a gun unattended in a room with the toddler.
Thompson is charged with possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. Kelly said additional charges are possible.
“He had no business with a weapon. He’d already been convicted of a felony in the state,” Kelly said.
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Officials said Thompson did not render aid to the child, but disposed of the gun and ran away.
“The parents were inside the residence, but they were not in the same room. They called 911, but we know that the male who is in custody fled the scene with the weapon and did not render aid,” Kelly said. He added that the parents have no involvement regarding the possession of the weapon.
Residents at The Colony apartments still have unanswered questions and concerns.
“It was very chaotic, traumatizing; the mom was crying — it was bad,” one witness said.
“I’m an older sister; my brothers, they’re out here,” another witness said. “They’re witnessing a lot of crime… that has me very overprotective about mine.”
On Saturday, Thompson was granted a $250,000 bond with several conditions, including electronic monitoring. Thompson is also not allowed to possess any guns once released.
The child’s family held a balloon release at the Colony Apartments, honoring Erin. A memorial including balloons, candles and dinosaur toys now sits at the front door of the apartment where he shot himself.
The family shared a statement with WIS:
“We are devastated by this loss, and our hearts ache for the life that was taken too soon. At the same time, we are deeply grateful for every memory, every smile, every moment of love, and every beautiful part of Erin that will remain with us forever.”