Darrion Noble, 27, died at home in Saint Louis, Missouri after a single gunshot to the neck on the afternoon of Saturday, September 23, 2017. He was asleep in bed when the wound occurred and died at the scene.

St. Louis police determined the shot was fired accidentally by Noble’s own 2-year-old son using a .38 caliber revolver Noble had kept for family protection. Noble’s older daughters were in the home and went to a neighbor for help after the shot. Authorities classified the death as non-criminal; there have been no arrests or suspects. Noble is survived by his wife and three children. The family has spoken about the toddler’s confusion and distress after the shooting and hopes the tragedy underscores the need to secure firearms where children live.

If anyone knew the family or has information about the household circumstances that could help others prevent similar accidents, please share.