Pregnant Mom Dies After Toddler Finds Gun in Couch

A devastating incident unfolded when a homemade firearm, discovered by a four-year-old child, led to the death of their pregnant mother, Kiara Ferguson. The firearm, a 12-gauge spring pipe gun, was stored in the family couch and was loaded. In a tragic turn of events, the gun discharged as Ms. Ferguson attempted to confront her partner, Adam Winmar, about its presence. The projectile struck her below the eye, resulting in fatal injuries. The incident occurred in the family's Shepparton home on April 1, 2023.

Adam Winmar, the father of Ms. Ferguson's children, was subsequently charged with reckless conduct endangering life and possessing a firearm as a prohibited person. Justice Michael Croucher, presiding over the case, highlighted the profound irresponsibility of storing such a dangerous weapon within reach of young children. Winmar's criminal history, which included recent offenses after Ms. Ferguson's death, was taken into account, alongside his ongoing drug abuse.

Despite the gravity of the offense and Winmar's continued substance use, he was sentenced to three months imprisonment followed by a community corrections order. The judge cited Winmar's extreme guilt, devastation, and the loss of his partner and access to his children as a significant form of punishment. He is required to undergo drug and alcohol treatment upon his release.