HARLEM, Ga. – A young child was hospitalized Thursday evening after accidentally shooting himself in the shoulder, according to the Harlem Police Department.

The incident occurred around 8 p.m. in the 200 block of North Fairview Drive. Authorities responded to the scene after receiving a call about a gunshot wound. Deputies provided initial aid to the child until Harlem Fire Department and EMS personnel arrived.

Investigators say the child discovered an unsecured firearm in his father’s room and accidentally discharged it, injuring himself. Despite the injury, deputies reported that the child was alert and conscious at the scene. He was transported to a local hospital and is expected to make a full recovery.

In the aftermath of the incident, Spencer Johnson, the child’s father, was arrested and charged with cruelty to children in the second degree. He was taken to the Columbia County Detention Center. The case remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to look into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Harlem Police Department urges gun owners to ensure firearms are securely stored to prevent such accidents.