A heartbreaking tragedy in Columbia, South Carolina, has left a family grieving after 3-year-old Erin Myers died following an accidental firearm incident, according to authorities.

The incident occurred Thursday on Bailey Street near The Colony apartments. Richland County deputies responded shortly after 5:40 p.m. after receiving a report involving a young child and a firearm.

When deputies arrived, they found Erin suffering from a *** wound. Emergency responders rushed the toddler to a local hospital, where medical personnel attempted to save his life. Despite those efforts, Erin sadly died from his injuries.

Authorities are now investigating how the firearm became accessible to the 3-year-old and what happened in the moments before the incident.

Investigators identified Erin’s uncle, 21-year-old Tyrone Thompson Jr., as being connected to the case. Authorities allege that Thompson left a firearm unattended in a room where the child could access it.

Thompson was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. Officials said additional charges could potentially be filed as the investigation continues.

Authorities also allege that Thompson left the scene after the incident with the firearm and did not provide aid to Erin. Investigators are continuing to examine those circumstances as they work to establish a complete timeline of what happened.

For Erin’s family, the investigation comes amid an unbearable loss. A child who had barely begun his life is now being remembered by loved ones whose lives have been permanently changed.

The tragedy has also renewed attention on the devastating consequences that can occur when firearms are left unsecured around young children. Even a brief moment of access can have irreversible consequences.

Officials have not announced that the investigation is complete, and additional details may emerge as detectives continue gathering evidence.

Thompson’s arrest and the allegations against him are part of an ongoing criminal investigation. Any additional charges would depend on the evidence and decisions made by prosecutors.

Meanwhile, Erin’s loved ones are left mourning a little boy whose life ended far too soon. 💔🕊️

As investigators continue working to determine exactly what happened, the family is facing the difficult days ahead without their beloved child.

The case remains ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to ᴀssist investigators.

🙏 Erin’s family now mourns an unimaginable loss while authorities continue searching for answers.