In response to two recent incidents in which children under the age of ten gained access to
unsecured firearms, leading to tragic outcomes, Wichita law enforcement officials are focusing on ongoing efforts to provide the community with free cable-style and trigger locks for guns.
Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan, Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter, and Dr. Molik, a pediatric trauma surgeon at Wesley Children’s Hospital, will hold a joint news conference this afternoon to emphasize the importance of firearm safety .
Dr. Kim Molik states, “We are seeing an alarming increase in firearm injuries, particularly among children harming other children. We have already treated six pediatric firearm injuries. These are tragic numbers for incidents that are entirely preventable.”
The Wichita Police Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, and Wesley Children’s Hospital are partnering to provide free cable-style and trigger locks to gun owners. These simple yet effective safety tools help ensure firearms are securely stored and out of children’s reach.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the free gun locks available at the Wichita Police Department, with no identification required to receive one.
You can also get gun locks at the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office jail lobby. Additionally, you can ask a deputy on patrol for a lock at any time. For more information on how to obtain a free gun lock, please visit or contact your nearest police station.
Patrol North: 316-350-3400
Patrol South: 316-350-3440
Patrol West: 316-350-3460
Patrol East: 316-350-3420
“Owning a firearm is a serious responsibility, and safe storage or the use of effective gun lock devices is essential—especially in homes with children,” stated Chief Sullivan. “Every year, we see heartbreaking cases of children accessing unsecured firearms. These tragedies are entirely preventable.”
