On Tuesday February 7, 2023 at approximately 11:02 AM, Portage Police and Fire units were dispatched to the 100 block of Coral Avenue in reference to a two-year-old female who had suffered a gunshot wound, according to Portage Police press release.
Upon arrival, immediate aid was provided and the child was taken by ambulance to the Portage Hospital. The child was then flown to an Illinois trauma center for advanced treatment, but she passed away later that evening.
The initial investigation shows that the child was able to gain access to a family-owned firearm. The child was able to discharge a single round, striking herself. There were no other children in the home and no other
injuries were reported. An autopsy is scheduled for today.
This is an ongoing investigation and upon completion, Portage Police findings will be presented to the Porter County Prosecutor’s Office to determine what, if any, criminal charges are appropriate.
Counselors have been made available to first responders who were affected by this incident. “Although responding to traumatic incidents are a normal occurrence for police, fire, EMS, and other first responders, incidents involving the untimely death of a child can be some of the hardest. We wish to thank the Portage Fire Department and all the medical professionals who worked diligently trying to save this child’s life. Portage’s first responders extend our condolences to the family of this young child.”
Is this a story about a reckless homicide? Or, a story about the poor first responders who are now in need of therapy? Man up!!!!!