3-year-old boy dead after accidental shooting inside a vehicle in Mebane, police say

MEBANE, N.C. (WTVD) -- Police in Mebane are investigating a child's death from a gunshot. Police say the accidental shooting happened Wednesday evening.

The investigation started when officers responded to reports of shots fired near the intersection of West Lee Street and South First Street just before 7:55 p.m. While checking the area, they found a child with a critical injury. The toddler was inside a vehicle.

The 3-year-old died less than an hour after being taken to the hospital, police said.

According to police, a gun was recovered at the scene, and a preliminary investigation confirms it was the one that accidentally discharged inside the vehicle.

Download the ABC11 App for Breaking News and Weather Alerts

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has video footage or relevant information is asked to contact the Mebane Police Department at (919) 563-9031.