PHOENIX, AZ — A 2-year-old boy is recovering from a gunshot wound after a tragic accident in Phoenix, Arizona, where police say his father, Oscar Guerra, left a loaded firearm unattended on a couch. The toddler accidentally shot himself in the arm with the weapon, leading to Guerra’s arrest on a felony charge of child abuse.
The incident unfolded around 10:40 p.m. on July 9, 2025, when emergency crews responded to a report of a child who had been shot at a residence in Phoenix. Upon arrival, officers found Guerra with his injured son and the handgun used in the shooting.
Oscar Guerra’s Negligence Ends in Tragedy
According to police reports, 27-year-old Oscar Guerra told officers he had removed the firearm from its storage to clean it. However, he became distracted while watching videos on his computer and left the loaded gun on the couch—within reach of his young son.
Guerra admitted he saw his son enter the room but believed the child had returned to his bedroom. Moments later, he heard a gunshot. His toddler had retrieved the gun from the couch and unintentionally shot himself in the left arm.
The child was rushed to the hospital, where medical staff confirmed the injuries were non-life-threatening, but the situation could have easily ended in greater tragedy.
Oscar Guerra Faces Felony Child Abuse Charge
Following an initial investigation, Oscar Guerra was arrested and charged with one felony count of child abuse. The charge carries the potential for up to nine years in prison if he is convicted. He was released from jail without bail, pending court proceedings.
The Phoenix Police Department emphasized the seriousness of the offense, noting that such negligence involving firearms—especially around children—is both dangerous and criminally irresponsible.
History of Unsafe Behavior
Guerra’s girlfriend and the child’s mother told authorities this was not the first time he had left a firearm unsecured in the home. She had repeatedly warned him about the danger, urging him to lock up his guns properly. Her concerns tragically materialized when their son gained access to the weapon.
Investigators stated that Guerra had access to secure gun storage tools, such as a lockbox, but failed to use them. His disregard for basic firearm safety protocols is a central part of the criminal case being built against him.
Renewed Calls for Gun Safety Awareness
The case involving Oscar Guerra and his injured son has sparked renewed public discourse surrounding firearm safety, particularly in homes with children. Experts and law enforcement alike continue to emphasize the importance of:
- Storing firearms unloaded and locked away
- Using trigger locks
- Keeping ammunition separate from firearms
- Educating family members about firearm safety
- Never leaving firearms unattended
The Phoenix Police Department released a statement calling on all gun owners to recognize the life-or-death responsibility that comes with owning a firearm—especially in households with minors.
A National Pattern of Preventable Tragedies
This is not an isolated incident. Just months earlier, another 2-year-old fatally shot his twin sibling after finding a gun left unsecured in their home. These recurring tragedies highlight the urgent need for public education and stricter safety regulations.
Oscar Guerra’s case has drawn attention across social media, where many are using hashtags like #CarelessParent, #ChildAbuse, and #GunSafety to express outrage and call for accountability.
A Tragic Lesson in Responsibility
While Guerra’s son is expected to recover physically, the emotional impact on the child and the family is immeasurable. Prosecutors are taking the case seriously, and Guerra could face years behind bars if convicted.
As the community reflects on this preventable tragedy, authorities are hoping that it will serve as a wake-up call to other gun owners. The safety of a child should never be compromised by neglect or carelessness.
Oscar Guerra’s next court date has not yet been announced, but the investigation remains active. Police urge anyone with concerns about gun safety in their household to seek resources and education to prevent future tragedies.
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