Teen Shot by 6-Year-Old Brother in Home of Alabama Republican State Rep.; Investigation Underway

Trinity, AL (BuzzReport) — Authorities in Lawrence County are investigating a shooting involving two young brothers that occurred Saturday afternoon inside a family home in Trinity.

According to Max Sanders, the incident happened at a residence on County Road 460, which belongs to District 7 State Representative Ernie Yarbrough. Investigators say a 6-year-old child retrieved a rifle from a bedroom and discharged the weapon, striking his 13-year-old brother in the shoulder.

Both children involved are the sons of Rep. Yarbrough. The injured teen was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated for what officials described as minor injuries and is expected to recover.

Sheriff Sanders confirmed that an active investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding how the child gained access to the firearm and whether any safety measures were in place at the time of the shooting.

As required in cases involving minors, the sheriff’s office has notified the Alabama Department of Human Resources. The agency typically reviews such incidents to assess child welfare and home safety conditions.

Once the initial investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office for further review and any potential legal determination.

Rep. Yarbrough, who has represented District 7 since 2022 and serves much of Lawrence County, has not publicly commented on the incident as of this report.

The case has drawn additional attention due to Yarbrough’s legislative history involving firearms. In 2023, he sponsored legislation aimed at prohibiting enforcement of so-called “red flag” laws, which allow temporary restrictions on firearm possession under certain circumstances. He has also supported election-related legislation, including a proposal requiring voters to register with a political party to participate in primary elections.

Authorities have not indicated whether any charges will be filed, and the investigation remains ongoing.