Warren Bennett Oser, a 2-year-old boy from Benson, NC, tragically died on October 16, 2022. Warren, affectionately known as "Bennett," was found with a gunshot wound near a car on the property when Johnston County sheriff's deputies responded to a call. The investigation revealed that Bennett had climbed into his father's pickup truck through an open door and was playing with a loaded handgun inside the vehicle. The gun discharged, resulting in a fatal injury to Bennett.
He was taken to Johnston Medical Center Clayton, where he succumbed to his injuries. The incident was initially considered an unfortunate accident, and no charges were filed immediately.
However, the investigation continued, and the Johnston County District Attorney's Office later authorized criminal charges against Warren Tyler Oser, Bennett's father. The charges were based on the failure to properly and safely store firearms to protect minors, in violation of North Carolina General Statute 14-315. The investigation found that three firearms with no safety mechanisms engaged were left unattended in Mr. Oser's truck. Bennett gained access to one of the firearms, a 40-caliber Smith & Wesson, while his father was nearby repairing a lawnmower. The sheriff's office submitted its report to the district attorney, who chose to file charges.
Warren Tyler Oser pleaded guilty to the charge of Failure to Store Firearms to Protect a Minor, a misdemeanor. He was placed on supervised probation and ordered to perform community service acts that promote gun safety around minors. The District Attorney's Office emphasized the importance of gun safety and responsibility, especially around minors, and hoped that this case would serve as a reminder to gun owners to secure their weapons properly. The tragic death of Warren Bennett Oser highlights the critical need for proper gun storage and the devastating consequences of failing to do so.
