A devastated family is seeking prayers as a young girl battles for her life following an incident where she accessed her father’s firearm and accidentally shot herself.
Describing the young girl, her aunt La’Dorothy Griggs expressed, “She’s a ray of sunshine, brimming with vitality, a vibrant spirit who adores dancing and exudes humor.”
According to Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton, 3-year-old Skye McBride sustained a gunshot wound to her face on Valentine’s Day after gaining access to her father’s gun, just a day subsequent to the implementation of Michigan’s safe storage gun law.
“Currently, she remains in critical condition, bravely fighting for her life. Therefore, we implore you to keep her in your thoughts and prayers,” pleaded Griggs.
The family of Skye McBride, the 3-year-old involved, is earnestly requesting prayers as she fights for her life following an incident where she accidentally shot herself with her father’s gun. (Family of Skye McBride)
During a visit to her father’s residence in Flint, Michigan on Valentine’s Day, the toddler discovered her father’s loaded firearm. Leyton disclosed that Skye unintentionally shot herself, with the bullet passing through her right eye and exiting through her skull.
“She was visiting her father, whom she doesn’t frequently see, and he displayed carelessness and irresponsibility. Let this serve as a lesson to all: secure your firearms,” emphasized Griggs.
Leyton revealed that Skye’s father, 44-year-old Michael Tolbert, faced multiple felony charges, including violating Michigan’s new gun safety storage law.
“I did not anticipate this to occur so swiftly, but regrettably, it did. While I appreciate the existence of the law, I am saddened by the incident,” Leyton remarked.
Remaining steadfast by Skye’s side, her aunts, grandmother, and a family friend conversed with WNEM from the hospital about the tragic event.
“At present, I feel numb and mentally overwhelmed, especially since her mother has a heart condition, and I am striving to prevent her from experiencing a heart attack,” shared Pamela Williams, Skye’s grandmother.
Griggs mentioned that the family is relying on their faith as Skye fights for her life in critical condition.
“I wouldn’t wish this upon any family. It has been an agonizing experience. There are no words to describe it. We are shattered,” Griggs expressed.
The family disclosed that Skye is scheduled for surgery to remove her right eye and is currently in a medically induced coma.
“I am struggling to come to terms with it. It’s tearing me apart. That’s the most challenging aspect for me,” Griggs revealed.
As medical expenses accumulate, the family has initiated fundraising efforts.
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