Gun and purse revealed in shooting of Idaho mom by her toddler
In addition to being a mom, Veronica Rutledge, 29, held a bachelor’s in chemistry and worked at the Idaho National Laboratory. (Photo: Facebook)
Authorities investigating the accidental shooting of a mother by her 2-year-old inside a Walmart in Hayden, Idaho, last week revealed details of the shooting.
Following the autopsy of the victim on Dec. 31, detectives gave step-by-step account of the incident as well as the gun and purse involved.
Veronica Rutledge, 29, was shopping inside the store with her son, who was seated inside the shopping cart next to her purse, and three other relatives under the age of 11.
Her son accessed her firearm, which she had a permit to carry concealed, from a pocket inside the purse and fired one round from the pistol. The bullet struck Rutledge, who was standing just a few feet away, in the head and killed instantly.
The store manager, who was nearby, quickly ran over and took the gun away from the toddler. The manager and store employees helped escort patrons out of the store as first responders arrived.
Authorities said that the handgun was a Smith & Wesson Shield chambered in 9mm. It’s a semi-automatic pistol specifically designed for concealed carry and while it is equipped with a safety, authorities did not reveal if it was engaged.
Also, local media reported that the purse was designed by Gun Tote’n Mamas, an Illinois-based company that sells bags at select retailers across the country and online.
Detectives are now reviewing surveillance video of the incident and are also examining the weapon, specifically the safety mechanism and ballistics.
Read More On:
Latest Reviews
-
AMT Backup .380 Review: Fun With a Retro Pocket Pistol
I’m rather fascinated with pocket guns, so when I came across this AMT Backup 380 in Guns.com's Certified Used stockpile, I had to give it a try. It's an interesting and affordable retro pistol.
Read More -
Winchester Model 100 in .243 Win Stands the Test of Time
Every now and then I happen upon a neat little rifle I’ve never heard of, like this Winchester Model 100. Let's see if this mid-century deer hunter chambered in .243 Winchester still has what it takes.
Read More -
Palm Full of Parabellum: A Review of the 9mm Bond Arms Stubby
Texas-based Bond Arms, the country's go-to maker of double-barreled derringer-style handguns in usable calibers, recently introduced an ultra-compact new 9mm-- the aptly named Stubby.
Read More -
.243 Winchester: Spicy Short-Action Cartridge with Staying Power
The short-action .243 Winchester is a long-lasting, incredibly versatile chambering, but is it still relevant in a world of newer 6mm cartridges? Let's dig in and find out.
Read More
