Flint, MI — A father is facing serious legal consequences after his toddler daughter managed to access his firearm and accidentally shot herself. The incident has now led to a scheduled jury trial, following charges that underscore the dangers and legal responsibilities of gun ownership in households with children.
Michael Tolbert from Flint hurriedly took his daughter, Skye McBride, to Hurley Medical Center on February 14 after she suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The toddler’s tragic mishap occurred due to the firearms being easily accessible; investigators found a revolver and a semi-automatic pistol in Tolbert’s residence positioned near items typically used by children.
At the crime scene, the presence of blood and brain matter was noted, along with evidence that a shot had been fired from the revolver – indicated by a bullet hole in the ceiling. The toddler sustained severe injuries as the bullet penetrated her right eye and exited her skull. She underwent critical medical attention and, after stabilizing, has been involved in extensive rehabilitation and physical therapy.
In the wake of this incident, Tolbert has been charged under Michigan’s newly implemented safe storage law, which came into effect just a day prior to the shooting. The law mandates that firearms must be securely stored in environments where children are present or likely to be. Tolbert faces multiple charges including first-degree child abuse, which could result in a life sentence, as well as violation of the safe storage law, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, lying to a police officer, and multiple counts of felony firearm.
Prosecutors are utilizing this case to highlight the critical importance of responsible gun ownership and the legal obligations that come with it. The trial, set to begin on May 7 following a final pretrial hearing on April 1, will likely serve as a significant interpretation of the new storage law.
Adding to the family’s distress, Skye has been receiving ongoing medical care including surgeries and the fitting of a prosthetic eye announced by her aunt, LaDorothy Griggs, who has also organized a fundraising effort to cover the mounting medical expenses.
These events not only emphasize the potential physical dangers children face in environments with unsecured firearms but also serve as an acute reminder of the legal risks firearm owners bear.
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