LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A discarded gun led to a shooting that left a toddler hospitalized Friday, according to Metro police.
Investigators are looking into two separate shootings that happened the morning of November 3.
LVMPD officers responded to an incident on an RTC bus near Kell Lane and North Nellis Boulevard that happened around 10:41 a.m. An initial investigation revealed that an 18-year-old individual got into a physical altercation with a teenager while on the bus.
MORE: RTC says violence is not condoned on buses, stops after shooting that led to toddler injured
The teen then took out a firearm and shot the 18-year-old while on the bus. Police arriving at the scene located the 18-year-old and transported them to UMC Trauma in "unknown condition."
After firing, the teenage suspect exited the bus and fled the scene on foot, eventually hopping a divider wall at a Foundations Preschool location at 1567 N. Nellis Boulevard. While passing through, the suspect discarded his firearm on the daycare's playground.
Police say a toddler attending the daycare found the firearm, which discharged and injured the child after they picked it up. Daycare employees notified police of the injury, according to LVMPD.
The toddler was given life-saving measures at the scene and has since been transported to a hospital.
During a press conference at the scene Friday afternoon, Reggie Rader, a deputy chief with Metro, said the toddler was in "stable, but critical" condition.
UPDATE: 2-year-old gunshot survivor receives bravery award from Las Vegas police
One father of a 5-year-old who attends the school said he was surprised by the incident.
Rader lauded the officers who arrived to the preschool shortly after Metro was alerted to the situation.
"I'd like to thank the quick actions of the patrol officers in the area who were able to respond quickly," Rader said. "They apprehended the suspect, but, more importantly, provided critical life-saving measures for that toddler."
The suspect was apprehended by police shortly after and booked into Clark County Detention Center. Police are working with the District Attorney to determine applicable charges and whether the teen will be tried as an adult.
All parents of children attending the daycare have also been notified of the incident. Police advise the public to avoid the area due to heavy police presence.
