This is a tragedy, plain and simple. Clearly the fault lies with the father, but not in the way many will think. Had the father taken the time to teach this kid proper firearm safety this could have been prevented. Leaving a loaded pistol within reach of the kid wasn't the most intelligent thing to do, but I can find no fault with the guy. He will have to live with the consequences.
Everyone should let this be a lesson. Do not lock firearms away from children. Instead teach children proper firearms safety. Show children how dangerous firearms can be. Locking fireamrs away from children is the worst thing you can do, it creates an aura of mystery about them. Once you take away the stigma associated with firearms they become boring.
Just my two cents
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