The Pauling County Sheriff’s Office reports that a four-year-old child’s death is being investigated as murder. E-911 received a call about a four-year-old who had fallen and needed medical attention around 2:40 a.m. on August 30, 2024.

At the scene, first responders determined that the child had suffered different injuries than described. At 152 Village Drive in Hiram, Georgia, deputies and detectives determined that the child had suffered a gunshot wound to the head.

PCSO says the child was pronounced deceased early that morning. Detectives spoke to the adults who were in the home. PCSO says it was discovered that an adult sibling had left the gun unattended.

Authorities allege the child must’ve retrieved it and accidentally shot herself. 20-year-old Joseph Edwin Hinson is charged with Murder 2nd Degree and Cruelty to Children 2nd Degree. He is being held in the Pauling County Jail without bond.

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