Parent in Custody After Toddler Pulls Loaded Gun at Michigan Daycare

A parent is in custody after a toddler brought a loaded handgun into a Michigan daycare and pulled the weapon from a backpack, prompting a police investigation. The incident happened Monday, Sept. 28, at Children’s World Early Learning Center in Canton Township, west of Detroit. Police were called after staff discovered that the toddler had a loaded firearm inside the daycare.

Teacher Quickly Intervenes

The gun was reportedly inside a holster in the child’s backpack. A teacher in the classroom noticed the toddler handling the weapon and immediately intervened, securing the firearm before anyone was injured.

Police praised the teacher for recognizing the danger and acting quickly. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the incident, showing the employee intervening before the situation could escalate.

No children or staff members were injured, and authorities said there was no ongoing threat connected to the incident.

One Parent Is a Police Officer

Investigators contacted both of the toddler’s parents. Police confirmed that one parent is a police officer who works for a neighboring jurisdiction, but that officer was not the parent taken into custody.

Authorities also said the handgun found at the daycare was not a service weapon. Investigators are continuing to determine exactly how the toddler gained access to the firearm and how it ended up inside the child’s backpack.

Police said there was no indication that the child intentionally brought the weapon to the daycare with malicious intent. However, the incident has raised concerns about the importance of securely storing firearms where children cannot access them.

Parents Expected in Court

Authorities announced that the parents are expected to face charges in connection with the incident. An initial court appearance is expected Thursday.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the charges is expected to be released as the case moves forward.

Daycare Adds New Safety Measures

The daycare already had security procedures in place when the incident occurred. Following the discovery of the firearm, the facility plans to increase its safety measures, including additional checks of backpacks brought into the building.

The incident has also renewed attention on firearm storage around young children. Michigan law includes requirements regarding the secure storage of firearms when children are present.

Despite the potentially dangerous circumstances, no one was injured in the daycare incident. Authorities continue to investigate how the toddler was able to access the loaded handgun and bring it into the facility.