When one thinks about shooting injuries, minor or severe, they typically think of those caused by handguns and rifles. However, let’s not forget that people do hurt themselves and others with BB and pellet guns. Though BB guns are not firearms, they can still cause serious harm if not used correctly or if they are used to hurt others intentionally.

Sadly, 12-year-old Elijah Hill, a young boy from Brunswick, Georgia, is in critical condition after being shot in the head with a high powered BB gun.

NBC WTLV reported that a helicopter took Elijah to Shands Hospital where he is battling for his life.

The news report also makes it clear that this incident was no accident. Police told NBC WTLV that “the boy who allegedly shot Hill was taken to Waycross Regional Youth Detention Center in Waycross, Georgia. He is also 12 years old.”

Elijah’s mother, Ashantae Hill, started a GoFundMe account in hopes of raising $3,500 to help pay for medical expenses to get the family through this challenging time. The details in her post reveal just how severe Elijah’s injury is, and how the young man may have a long road to recovery.

Her message to those willing to help Elijah reads:

Hello, my name is Ashantae Hill. My 12yr old son, Elijah Hill was shot Monday afternoon with a high powered rifled bb gun through his left temple. The bb traveled through his brain and is now sitting in the back right of his skull. My baby is in critical condition in ICU at Wilson Children’s Hospital. We are asking for this donation to help with any medical expenses as well as other needs my son may have in the future for we are hoping and praying that he makes it. We will appreciate any, and every donation for all are coming from the heart. Please continue to pray for my son that he makes it through this trying time. Thank you very much, and God bless.

The amount of damage this BB gun did is astounding, and kids who shoot BB guns for fun need to understand that having the ability to use one requires great responsibility.

A 12-year-old is more than old enough to know the difference between right and wrong, and a child that age should also understand that BB guns are not just toys.

Parents need to ensure their children are responsible enough to have a BB gun of their own before handing one over. Furthermore, if a kid is given a BB gun, parents should take the time to teach them basic firearm safety. For example, always assume the BB gun is loaded, keep the BB gun pointed in a safe direction and away from people, and know your target and what’s beyond it. Treating a BB gun as if it were a real firearm is a great way to instill the rules of gun safety in children.

Let’s hope the 12-year-old boy responsible for this life-threatening injury gets the help he needs, as well, so this pattern of violent behavior doesn’t continue into his adult life.

In the big scheme of things, the $3,500 Ashantae Hill is trying to raise is not a lot of money, and according to the amount donated so far, the family is almost halfway to their goal. However, one can be sure the medical expenses will far surpass that of what they’re asking.

Bearing Arms has a loyal readership, and thousands of people visit the site daily. If you feel lead to give, or would like to donate, this link will take you to Ashantae Hill’s GoFundMe page.

Do your thing, guys.