Michael Tolbert : "Genesee Co. Man Charged with Child Abuse: Safe Storage Violation"

1. Man charged with child abuse in Genesee Co.
2. Safe storage violation in Genesee Co. man charged with child abuse.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

In a tragic incident in Genesee County, Michigan, a Flint man, identified as 44-year-old Michael Tolbert, has been charged under Michigan’s newest gun law. The charges come after his 2-year-old daughter, Skye McBride, sustained a gunshot wound to her head due to an unsecured gun in their home.

County Prosecutor David Leyton announced the charges, including first-degree child abuse and violation of the Safe Storage law, which mandates that firearms must be securely locked or stored in a container when not in use.

According to Leyton, the Flint Police Department responded to the incident at Hurley Medical Center on Feb. 14, where the young girl was found with a severe injury. Medical professionals have stated that Skye McBride may lose her right eye and remains in critical condition.

Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet, the sponsor of the Safe Storage law, emphasised the importance of responsible gun ownership. She highlighted that the United States sees an average of one unintentional shooting of a child every day, underscoring the necessity of safe storage practices.

Gun reform advocates, such as Ryan Bates of End Gun Violence Michigan, have reiterated the significance of adhering to the law to prevent tragedies like the one involving Skye McBride. Bates urged gun owners to ensure that firearms in households with children are securely stored to avoid accidents.

Michigan’s Attorney General Dana Nessel expressed her dismay over the preventable incident, stating that the new safe storage rules were implemented to prevent such senseless injuries. Nessel emphasised that adults failing to properly store firearms around children will be held accountable under the law.

During the announcement of charges, members of the Michigan State Police highlighted the availability of free gun locks at various state police posts. Tolbert has already been arraigned and awaits further legal proceedings.