Child picks up gun while walking with mother to Franklin Park

A child made a startling discovery on Wednesday night while walking with his mother to Franklin Park, finding a gun on the ground.

The child spotted and picked up a 9mm gun sitting by granite slabs during the walk.

His mother quickly told him to put the gun down, and called immediately called police.

Mothers in the area are now worried as summer begins and walks become more frequent.

"I don't know what I'd do, I'd freak out," Kay Robinson said. "That's so scary!"

Michelle Williams said her worry turns to what could happen to the child, and others in the area.

“Just you telling me that makes my heart beat 10 times," Michelle Williams said. "I can’t even comprehend that. Of course I’d be freaking out for him, but possibly other kids. I’d be worried of someone picking it up and actually doing something with it.”

Williams had questions after the incident, wondering about the worst-case scenario.

“What if this child accidentally shot himself or someone else?" Williams said.

Neena McConnico said she goes to the area often, and was surprised a gun was found, especially by a child.

“I can say I’ve always felt pretty safe in here," Mcconnico said. "I’m surprised.”

Cox Media Group