A 12-year-old Gwinnett County boy died Friday of an accidentally self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.

His mother was inside the home when he and a 9-year-old boy were playing in the garage shortly before 6 p.m. in the 4900 block of Appaloosa Trail in Norcross, Gwinnett County police spokesman Cpl. Deon Washington said.

The gun went off while the 12-year-old was playing with it, Washington said.

Detectives and crime scene technicians are working to document the scene.

Police don’t expect to charge the mother, Washington said.

“This is a very sad and unfortunate reminder for gun owners to ensure that your guns are locked in a place that children cannot access,” Washington said. “It is also a reminder of how important it is to teach children the dangers of playing with guns.”

About the Author

Keep Reading

DeKalb County firefighter Preston Fant, 53, died Sept. 8, 2025, after responding to a commercial structure fire. His memorial service will be at Truist Park on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. (Courtesy of the DeKalb County Fire Department)

Credit: DeKalb County Fire Department

Featured

The city of Atlanta opened Azalea Fresh Market downtown to help residents find affordable groceries. (Natrice Miller/AJC)