An 8-year-old boy is in stable condition after being shot by a family member in what police are calling an accident.
According to Gilroy Police, on July 6 at about 6:30pm, Antonio Michael Rodriguez III, 30, was reportedly “manipulating a firearm” inside a home in the area of Eighth and Eigleberry streets when the gun fired, striking the boy who was outside in the yard.
The boy was transported to an area trauma center for non-life-threatening injuries, and on July 7 was listed in stable condition.
Police said the shooting appeared to be accidental. However, Rodriguez reportedly fled the scene but was found shortly after and arrested.
Rodriguez was charged with negligent discharge of a firearm and child abuse. He was booked into Santa Clara County Jail on no bail, with a court date set for July 9.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Rocha at 408.846.0334 and refer to case number 21-2769. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the Tip Line at 408.846.0330.
