Detroit mom charged in son's shooting himself

Detroit — A Detroit mother has been charged in connection with her 4-year-old son shooting himself in the leg.

Latasha Tamika Lum, 30, is expected to be arraigned Tuesday in 36th District Court on one count of second-degree child abuse after her son accidentally shot himselflate Monday night.

According to police, the incident occurred at about 10:30 p.m. in the 6200 block of Minock, on the city's east side. Police said Lum fell asleep in the living room and was awakened by a gunshot.

"The mother said the child was able to retrieve a .40 caliber handgun inside the residence and shoot himself in the thigh," said Sgt. Michael Woody.

"The mother then privately transported the child to Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn. The child suffered a through and through wound to the leg."

After the boy was stabilized, he was transported by EMS to Children's Hospital, police said. He is expected to recover.

TGreenwood@detroitnews.com

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