ARLINGTON, Texas — A local family is reeling after a 6-year-old child was injured by gunfire inside their own home on Wednesday evening. The Arlington Police Department is currently investigating how a weapon was discharged in an upper level of the residence, resulting in a bullet traveling through the floor and striking the child below.
The Incident on Quail Run Road
Officers were dispatched to the 2300 block of Quail Run Road just after 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
- The Injury: The child sustained a gunshot wound to the leg.
- Medical Response: A family member acted quickly, driving the child to a local emergency room. Officials have confirmed the injury is non-life-threatening, and the child is currently in stable condition.
- The Investigation: It remains unclear who fired the weapon or how it was accessed. Detectives are currently interviewing residents of the home to determine the ownership of the firearm and the circumstances of the discharge.
A Pattern of Preventable Tragedies
This incident follows several high-profile cases of juvenile-related gunfire in Arlington, including the recent fatal shooting of Riley Jordan. In that case, a 17-year-old was arrested for supplying a stolen gun that was subsequently “played with” by a group of teens.
The Arlington Police Department has taken to social media to urge residents to re-evaluate their home safety protocols. They emphasize that “hidden” is not the same as “secured,” and that unsecured firearms pose a direct threat to the most vulnerable members of the household.
Gun Safety: Protecting Your Loved Ones
In light of these recent events, experts recommend a “Safety Audit” for every firearm owner in Arlington. Taking five minutes to check your equipment could prevent a lifetime of tragedy.
Essential Safety Tips for Parents & Owners
- The Triple-Lock Rule: Store firearms unloaded, in a locked safe, with a trigger lock or cable lock installed.
- Separate Ammunition: Always store ammunition in a completely different locked location from the firearm itself.
- Check Your Safe: Periodically verify that your safe’s combination or biometric lock has not been compromised or shared with minors.
- Ask the Question: Before your child goes to a friend’s house, ask the other parents: “Are there any firearms in the home, and how are they secured?” It is a life-saving conversation that should never be considered awkward.
- Education: Teach children that if they see a gun, they should: Stop, Don’t Touch, Run Away, and Tell a Grown-up.
Free Resources in Arlington
The Arlington Police Department frequently partners with programs like Project ChildSafe to provide free cable-style gun locks to residents. You can pick these up at any of the four Arlington Police stations (North, East, West, and South) during regular business hours—no questions asked.