SAN ANTONIO — An infant is dead after a shooting in the parking lot of the Audie L. Murphy VA Medical Center on Wurzbach Road and Merton Minter, according to authorities.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus says a woman, a 3-year-old, a 2-year-old, and an infant child were inside a parked SUV awaiting an appointment at the hospital. Authorities have not revealed the relationship between the driver and children yet.
"What we have here is a terrible, terrible tragedy," said McManus. "In the very rear of the vehicle, there was a loaded weapon. One of the two older children got ahold of that weapon and accidentally shot the 11-month or 10-month-old."
The toddler fired one round from a long gun, police say, striking and killing the infant.
KENS 5 confirmed with the medical examiner Tuesday the identity of the baby is 11-monthold Khamari Lang. Lang would have turned one in November.
KENS 5 made contact with their family and they said they are turly broken and in shambles right now. They were not able to comment on the matter.
Jimmy Soto recalled hearing a commotion as he waited for the bus.
"I think people shouldn't have guns in the car with kids like that because it's dangerous," said Soto. "Anything can happen."
According to Everytown research, unintentional shootings by children in the United States reached a record high in 2023 compared to the past decade.
"This tragedy and any tragedy like this are 100% preventable," said Sgt. Washington Moscoso with the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD). "Securing guns safely, securing ammunition and restricting access; those three things will prevent these shootings every time."
For gun owners who decide to keep firearms inside their vehicle, Sgt. Moscoso says they should be kept in a lock box or portable safe.
“At our SAFFE offices throughout the city, we have gun locks or gun boxes, depending on supply," said Sgt. Moscoso. "Those are free, just contact your nearest SAFFE office."
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System released the following statement in response to Monday's shooting.
"We are deeply saddened by this event and offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of everyone affected. The South Texas Veterans Health Care System takes the safety of its Veterans and staff seriously and appreciate the quick response and support from local law enforcement, as well as our VA Police.
While we are unable to provide information at this time, we refer you to the San Antonio Police Department who are currently investigating this situation. The Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital is safe, secure, and open to Veterans and staff, and we continue to care of our patients."
Police say it is not yet clear who owns the gun. No charges have been announced at this time.