Hicksville, Ohio – A two-year-old boy died Saturday afternoon after an accidental shooting at a home on Buckskin Road, according to the Defiance County Sheriff’s Office.
Truett Wayne Osmun was pronounced dead at Parkview Bryan Hospital following the shooting, which happened at a residence northeast of Hicksville. Deputies were called to the home shortly after noon on Saturday. Truett was the son of Drake Osmun and Cierra Douglas.
Investigation Continues Into Cause
Defiance County Prosecutor Morris Murray said the shooting occurred inside the back seat of a pickup truck, where an unsecured handgun had been left. Murray said his office is still reviewing the case and has not yet decided whether charges will be filed.
Ohio law sets specific requirements for gun owners regarding the safe storage of loaded firearms, and that standard is expected to play a role in the ongoing review.
Murray described the loss as a difficult reminder for gun owners to stay vigilant about firearm storage, particularly in homes where young children are present. He noted that the case has already sparked local conversations about expanding gun safety education in schools and across the community.
Hicksville Fire and EMS, along with the Hicksville Police Department, also responded to the scene alongside sheriff’s deputies.
Family Remembers a Curious, Affectionate Toddler
Truett was born on March 8, 2024, in Bryan, Ohio. Family members describe him as an energetic boy who loved playing with toy trucks and tools, especially outdoors. He was known for following his father everywhere and trying to copy whatever Drake was doing.
With his mother, Cierra, he was affectionate, often cuddling and giving kisses. Relatives say he had a memorable pouty expression whenever things did not go his way, and that his curious nature kept him constantly exploring and discovering new things. He also enjoyed playing with his siblings.
He is survived by his parents, Cierra Douglas and Drake Osmun, and three siblings, Scarlette, Kendyl, and Riggins.
He also leaves behind his grandfather, Jason Douglas; great-grandparents Peggy Vaughn of Hicksville, Vernon and Pam Ingram of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Christine Douglas of Quincy, Michigan; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dale Osmun, and great-grandparents Richard and Donna Osmun and Gary Douglas.
Private services for Truett are being held at Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home on North Main Street in Hicksville.
In place of flowers, the family is asking well-wishers to consider sending live plants or wind chimes. Memorial contributions can be made directly to the family through Drake Osmun.
The sheriff’s office and prosecutor’s office say the investigation remains open as authorities work to determine what, if any, charges may result from the incident.
The case has already drawn attention to broader questions about firearm storage and child safety in homes across the country, with officials hoping the tragedy will lead to greater awareness going forward.
