By Patrick Tepoorten

An 18-month-old female who was shot in the head with a BB gun on Tuesday night is listed in fair condition after an early scare that her injuries would prove far worse.

The incident, which occurred around 9 p.m. on Monday, May 9, appears to have been a tragic accident.

A 12-year-old had been shooting an air pump style BB gun outside at 6105 Stacy Trail in Stacy prior to the incident. Upon returning home, it is believed the 12-year-old left the air rifle unattended in an apartment, with a BB in the chamber, and air pressure built up inside the rifle, according to Lt. Steve Pouti of the Chisago County Sheriffís Office.

A four-year-old reportedly picked up the loaded BB gun and fired, hitting the 18-month-old in the hand and above the right eyebrow. It is unknown if the wound to the hand was a glancing wound or a ìpass through.î Pouti was certain on Thursday though, that both wounds were caused by the same round, not multiple shots.

The girl was transported to North Memorial Hospital where she was reportedly admitted in critical condition amidst worries that the BB may have penetrated the brain.

However, according to hospital spokesperson Wendy Jerde, the girl has been listed in fair condition since yesterday. Pouti further stated that the injury does not appear to have been life threatening and the girl suffered no brain damage as a result of the wound.
Look for more details in next weekís edition of the Post Review.