A 4-year-old Morton boy is dead after a loaded firearm accidentally discharged Friday night in Peoria.

Austin R. Williams, of Morton, was pronounced dead at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria Friday evening after a gunshot wound to the head.

Williams and two of his cousins, ages 2 and 5, were reportedly playing with a gun in the bedroom of a south side home in Peoria when it accidentally fired, hitting Williams in the head. Peoria County Coronor Johnna Ingersoll said authorities do not think Williams was holding the gun when it discharged.

Nathan and Ashley Williams, the boy’s parents, were visiting relatives at the home, 2120 W. Marquette Ave., in Peoria, said Ingersoll.

Charges have not been filed, but are expected later this week. Peoria County State’s Attorney Kevin Lyons said a misdemeanor charge for unlawfully possessing firearms around a child would be possible for the Peoria homeowner, Michale Ulrich.

Doug Burgess, public information officer with the Peoria Police Department, said the shooting is still under investigation by the police department and the Peoria County Coroner’s Office.

“There have been no formal charges yet,” he said. “Once the investigation is complete, the State’s Attorney’s Office will determine what charges are appropriate.”

Burgess said gun owners need to practice gun safety at all times and to make sure firearms are not accessible to children.

“Lock up your gun, first and foremost,” said Burgess, who also suggested purchasing a gun lock.
“The gun lock will rig the gun useless to a child.”
 

Nathan Domenighini and Stephanie Gomes contributed to this story.