1-year-old shot when gun hidden in diaper bag fires during diaper change: prosecutors

21-Year-Old Man Accidentally Shoots 1-Year-Old Boy While Changing Diaper

In a tragic incident earlier this month, a 21-year-old man accidentally shot a 1-year-old boy while changing his diaper in a South Shore apartment. Police report that a gun kept inside the child’s diaper bag became tangled and discharged, resulting in the child sustaining gunshot wounds to his legs.

The incident took place in the 7700 block of South Yates, where Chicago police responded to a report of a child shot shortly after 2 p.m. on November 8. The toddler was taken to Comer Children’s Hospital in critical condition with injuries to his left and right legs.

Initially, the man, identified as Torion Stokes, claimed that an unknown assailant had tried to force his way into the apartment and shot the child. However, after further investigation and questioning, Stokes admitted to carrying a 9mm handgun inside the diaper bag. While changing the boy’s diaper, the gun became tangled and accidentally discharged, causing the child’s injuries.

Following Stokes’ admission, a search of the apartment led to the discovery of more weapons and accessories. Multiple handguns, drum magazines, and ammunition were found in various rooms of the residence.

Court records reveal that Stokes is currently enrolled in a “first-time weapon offender probation” program related to a previous unlawful use of a weapon case from 2023. If he successfully completes the probation, the 2023 charges will be dismissed without a conviction.

Stokes now faces charges of reckless discharge of a firearm, child endangerment, and possessing ammunition without a valid FOID card. Judge Susana Ortiz has ordered him to be detained pending trial.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of gun safety and responsible firearm ownership. Our thoughts are with the young child and his family during this difficult time.