GREENVILLE, Ala. — A heartbreaking accident has left the community of Greenville in mourning after a 5-year-old child died Wednesday afternoon from a gunshot wound sustained inside a vehicle.

Appearing on Q94’s Kyle and Dave Show, Justin Lovvorn, chief of the Greenville Police Department, shared preliminary details of what investigators believe to be a tragic accidental shooting.

Police were called shortly after 3 p.m. to Regional Medical Center regarding a young gunshot victim. Authorities were informed that the incident occurred inside a vehicle that had just arrived at a family residence off North Conecuh Street. According to investigators, the child discovered a firearm inside the vehicle, and it discharged when she picked it up.

The child was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to her injuries due to their severity, officials said.

Chief Lovvorn described the incident as appearing to be a tragic accident, though he emphasized that a full investigation is ongoing. More details are expected to be released once authorities complete their review.

The devastating loss has shaken the tight-knit community, with many expressing sorrow for the child’s family as they face an unimaginable tragedy. Officials continue to urge gun owners to secure firearms properly to prevent similar accidents and protect children from harm.