Michigan father charged for first time under new safe gun storage law after son shoots himself in the face

Michigan prosecutors have charged a father with violating the state’s new safe storage law after his son allegedly grabbed a gun and shot himself in the face at their home.

Theo Nichols’ 8-year-old son was in “extremely critical condition” in a Detroit hospital following the April 19 incident, police in Warren, Michigan, said during a press conference on Wednesday.

Investigators said the boy used a chair to access the handgun that was “dangerously” and insecurely stored on a kitchen cabinet.

“In the wake of this tragic incident, we are reminded of the profound responsibility that comes with gun ownership,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in a statement.

Nichols, the child’s mother and three of her siblings were inside the home at the time of the incident, police said. Nichols was not allowed to possess a firearm due to a prior drug conviction, according to police.

Last year, the Michigan state legislature passed a law that requires gun owners to store their guns in a secure, locked container or lock up their gun if a minor lives in the home or s They know that a minor is entering their home. . The law, which came into force in February, provides for long prison sentences if convicted.

Nichols, 56, is the first defendant to be charged with violating this law. He was also indicted on other charges Monday, including child abuse and being a third-time habitual offender, the prosecutor’s office said.

Nichols was being held on $250,000 bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 30, the prosecutor’s office said.

Information from the suspect’s attorney was not immediately available.

The investigation was ongoing, investigators said.

Acting Warren Police Commissioner Charles Rushton reiterated that the incident was preventable and reminded people that gun locks are available free of charge at the police department and other agencies.

“We always recommend gun safes to people, unfortunately people don’t listen to us,” he said. “I hope this press conference, if nothing else, will inspire one person to use a gun lock and prevent another tragedy.

Lucido echoed the commissioner’s sentiments.

“This is a tragic warning to all parents. Do your part. Don’t back down. If you own a gun, you have children and their safety is at risk,” he said at the conference. press.