INDIANAPOLIS — People said they were grateful for the free gun locks handed out during an event Thursday at Villa Del Sol Apartments.
"People are carless. Anything can happen," says Demika Hunt, who came out to get a gun lock.
The giveaway was put on by the city and Marion County after 12 kids were involved in accidental shootings in 2023.
Four of them died.
Cammeal Harding, who came to get two gun locks, knew one of the toddlers accidentally killed last year.
"Seeing little kids getting hurt and, like I said, even adults, it's a lot. I'm tired of seeing people getting hurt for no reason. Things that can be prevented," Harding said.
In a clear tote, one woman brought her late husband's revolver. After checking to see if the gun was unloaded, a sheriff's deputy not only put the lock on for her, but also taught her how to do it herself.
For those wondering how the gun lock works, for a gun like a Glock, you take one end of the cable and snake it through the chamber, then through the magazine well. Then insert the cable back into the box, turn the key, and it's locked.
There are also instructions available for those who own a revolver or a rifle.
Aaron Peariso was one of the last people to pick up a gun lock Thursday. He said being part of the military and with a child in his house, gun safety is always top of mind.
"You got to have it locked up or holstered," Peariso said. "You can't just have it laying around for anyone to just grab or use, especially young children. They don't know they difference."
For those who missed Thursday's giveaway, Indianapolis Public Library branches will distribute free gun locks while supplies last.