Police: Seven-year-old killed in accidental shooting in Kannapolis

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. –  Kannapolis Police are investigating the accidental death of a child, according to a news release.

Police responded to a call on Cabarrus Arms Drive at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 23rd.

Timothy Wayne Burris was arrested by Kannapolis Police

Upon arrival, police say they witnessed a child suffering from a gunshot wound. Shortly after, the child was pronounced dead on scene.

Further investigation determined the child was shot by a sibling, police say. The investigation also revealed the gun was owned by the mother’s boyfriend, 33-year-old Timothy Wayne Burris. Police say the weapon was unsecured at in the apartment when the sibling picked it up and it accidentally fired.

Police have announced after consultation with the Cabarrus County District Attorney’s Office that Burris was arrested and charged with one count of felony child abuse inflicting serious injury, storing a firearm in a manner accessible to a minor and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

According to police, Burris was transported to the Cabarrus County Magistrate’s Office where he was issued a $25,000 secured bond. Burris is currently scheduled to have his first court appearance Friday.

Check back for updates.