Parents charged after child was shot near Mebane T-ball game

The parents of a child shot and killed in a car in Mebane will face criminal charges for failing to keep the weapon stored safely.

According to the Mebane Police Department, the shooting happened on May 7 near the intersection of West Lee Street and South First Street, in the vicinity of a youth T-ball game. Witnesses said they heard the shot, but thought it was a car backfiring.

Michael and Kaitlyn Hatch will both face a misdemeanor charge of failure to store firearms to protect minors. 

Authorities have not released the name, age or gender of the child.

The police department said, "We recognize the deep and lasting impact this tragedy has had on our community. Our thoughts remain with the family, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking loss. We continue to urge anyone who may have relevant information, eyewitness accounts, or video footage to contact the Mebane Police Department at 919-563-9031.