Records: Staff at Richmond Daycare Called Unsecured Guns 'Normal Routine' Before Toddler Found One

By Billy Briefman · October 21, 2026 · 2 min read read

Richmond Daycare Staff Called Unsecured Gun a Normal Routine Before Child Accessed It Originally reported by WTVR CBS 6. WTVR CBS 6 Richmond daycare employees characterized an unsecured firearm as...

Richmond Daycare Staff Called Unsecured Gun a Normal Routine Before Child Accessed It

Originally reported by WTVR CBS 6. WTVR CBS 6

Richmond daycare employees characterized an unsecured firearm as a standard occurrence before a two-year-old child accessed the weapon, according to records obtained by WTVR CBS 6.

The investigation into the facility reveals a pattern of behavior regarding firearm storage that preceded the incident involving the toddler. Documents indicate that staff members viewed the gun's presence within the childcare environment as part of a "normal routine" rather than an isolated safety breach.

Investigation Details Safety Failures

Records show the unsecured firearm remained accessible within the Richmond facility during hours of operation. According to the reporting, staff statements provided to investigators suggest a lack of urgency or concern regarding the weapon's proximity to children before the two-year-old reached it.

The documentation outlines how the child managed to interact with the gun, highlighting significant lapses in supervision and adherence to safety protocols required for licensed childcare providers in VA. The reports do not indicate that the weapon was stored in a locked container or out of reach as mandated by state regulations.

Staff Statements Reveal Facility Culture

During the inquiry, employees described the environment to investigators, noting that the presence of the firearm did not deviate from their daily expectations. According to the records, this "normal routine" continued until the toddler successfully accessed the device.

Authorities continue to review the facility's compliance history and the specific actions of the individuals present during the event. The records obtained by WTVR CBS 6 serve as a primary component of the ongoing assessment of the daycare's operational safety.

This article is based on reporting originally published by WTVR CBS 6. Channel RVA provides this coverage with additional local context for the Richmond community.