JOHNSON, Vt. -
A 17 year old was shot and killed by his brother in Johnson this past Friday. Police say the younger brother was cleaning a shotgun.
We first told you about this tragic story last night, and although there are very few new details in this case, I spoke with a Vermont State Police Trooper today to find out how preventable deaths like this one can be avoided.
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"Young life," Trooper Todd Ambroz said as he sighed.
17 year old Jacob Lehouillier was shot and killed Friday by his younger brother. Police haven't given his name or age yet, but say he was cleaning a shotgun when the bullet discharged.
"You gotta feel for a family like that," Trooper Ambroz said.
Police say every year, there are gun related deaths that could have been prevented. In a popular hunting state like Vermont, guns are in the house.
"Vermont has one of the most liberal gun laws in the nation," Trooper Ambroz said.
So having that conversation with your kids about gun safety is imperative. Trooper Ambroz says treat every weapon as if it was loaded.
"You wouldn't give your kids a car and say here you go, why would you do that with a gun?" he said.
Any one at any age can hunt legally after passing a safety course, but to target practice in the backyard with say a six year old, that's legal, and at the discretion of each parent or guardian.
"Everybody has a different learning ability and level of maturity," Trooper Ambroz said.
And after guns are shot, they need to be cleaned to avoid rust and corrosion, but removing the magazine or clearing the chamber isn't enough.
"You can put trigger locks on them, store them in a gun safe that's locked, keep the ammunition separate from the gun and don't leave the keys accessible," Trooper Ambroz said.
It only takes one bullet and one second to take a life. Sadly, for Jacob Lehouillier, it's too late.
Trooper Ambroz also suggests being very familiar with your weapon. Because every gun is so different, do a little research on the manufacturer.
No one from the Lamoille County Sheriff's Department was available for an on-camera interview, but deputies say the investigation is still on-going.
