Investigation of 5-year-old boy’s fatal shooting continues

Authorities are still investigating how a small boy was able to get hold of a gun and fatally shoot himself in the parking lot of a pre-school Tuesday afternoon.

It happened in the parking lot of Neighborhood Kids Academy on Neighborhood Market Road, off Chickasaw Trail, just before 4 p.m., according to the Orange County Sheriff ’s Office.

Judah Todman, 5, was found in the family vehicle by his father.

Judah’s father drove him across the street to Florida Hospital East, where the child later died, said sheriff ’s spokeswoman Jane Watrel.

Deputies said the weapon belonged to a family member, but did not say how Judah was able to access it.

Attempts to reach Judah’s family were not successful Wednesday.

Workers at the pre-school also declined to comment Wednesday.

Judah was a student at Three Points Elementary School.

Grief counselors were available for students and staff at the school Wednesday, said an Orange County schools spokeswoman.

“We are saddened to hear of the passing of one of our students. Our sincere condolences are extended to the family,” the school district said in a statement.

“There are grief counselors on campus to help support students and staff who may need to talk with someone.”

Orange County Sheriff ’s Office homicide detectives said they think that the shooting was accidental, and they will forward the case to the State Attorney’s Office for further review to determine whether any charges will be filed in the shooting. Michael Williams can be reached at miwilliams@ orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5022