Glendale police are warning residents to be vigilant about their guns and firearms. This comes after a teenager was critically wounded in an accidental shooting in the early morning hours on Tuesday.

Police say a 13-year-old boy remains in critical condition, while a boy his same age may face charges after the handgun he was holding went off and shot the victim. The two were “messing around” with the weapon at a residence near 67th Avenue and Bethany Home Road. Just after midnight, the gun discharged, striking the victim. He was rushed to the hospital.

According to authorities, the gun belonged to the victim’s mother, who was at home but in another room at the time of the incident. Investigators have determined that the firearms inside the home were easily accessible and not properly secured. Police also say there were several other kids, ranging in age from 10 to 18, inside the home at the time, and not all were related to the victim’s mother. The woman is expected to face endangerment charges.

Glendale Police officials urge parents to remember that, especially with school out for the summer, it is absolutely essential to be very careful when it comes to securing firearms. If parents are going to have guns, they need to do so responsibly and safely. It’s important to know where your gun is at all times, even if you’re not home.

For more information, please visit the official website of the Glendale Police Department HERE.