KINSTON, N.C. (WNCT) — Two Lenoir County men are facing charges after their children gained access to loaded guns in separate incidents. One incident resulted in the death of a 3-year-old while the other led to the injury of a teen.
On Wednesday, Farentino Roberts, 33, was charged by the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office with misdemeanor child abuse, failing to store firearms to protect minors and contributing to the neglect of a minor by a parent. Roberts turned himself over to officials when notified of the charges. He was given an unsecured bond.
Roberts’ arrest came after an incident on Jan. 5 where a toddler gained access to an unsecured and loaded gun inside a home on Rebecca Lane. The toddler fired a shot that injured a teen sibling, causing serious injury. The teen has since recovered.
On January 14, a 3-year-old boy was killed after gaining access to an unsecured loaded handgun in Pink Hill and shooting himself, officials said. On Thursday, Clarence Byrd III, 29, was charged with involuntary manslaughter and negligent child abuse. Byrd turned himself in to officials.
Byrd received a secured bond. Both suspects have since been released after posting bond.
“My heart goes out to the families involved in these tragic incidents,” Lenoir County Sheriff Jackie Rogers said. “Please support these fathers and their families as they navigate the future.
“I challenge all Lenoir County residents to practice firearm safety in their homes, especially in homes were children are present.”
For information on how to talk to children about gun safety, rules for safe gun storage and rules for safe gun handling, please visit the N.C. Department of Public Safety online here.
