Siegel releases statement in support of DA Holihan’s decision to file charges in tragic death of 3-year-old Elijah Abreu Borgen

HARRISBURG, April 5 – State Rep. Josh Siegel released the following statement today after a firearm-related death of a child in his community:

“I’m saddened and enraged by yet another entirely preventable death of a child in our commonwealth. Today’s investigation once more shows how we’ve failed to protect our children from the dangers of firearms and how negligence and irresponsibility on the part of gunowners must be met with accountability. These tragedies wouldn’t happen if Pennsylvania had safe storage and child access prevention laws to ensure that guns were properly stored and away from children. Be a good parent, a responsible gun owner and store your damn guns responsibly for the sake of your family.

“I fully support and stand with the decision of District Attorney Holihan to file charges in this case.  We should not tolerate, as a city or society, reckless and negligent handling of firearms especially when they endanger the life of a child. This was the right call and I hope it sends a strong message to future parents and saves future lives.

“This is not about the 2nd Amendment; it’s about acknowledging the responsibility that comes with owning a deadly weapon. One’s right to a firearm does not override the rights of a child to safety and security. Pennsylvania needs to do better by its children.”