A teenager and a 6-year old were injured in an accidental shooting in Elkhart Monday evening. 

The incident occurred at 311 East Carlton Avenue when four children ages fourteen, nine, and six heard a loud noise outside of residence at approximately 7:44 p.m.

The Elkhart Police Department says the teenager found a handgun inside the residence to protect himself, his sister, and his brother. 

Police say the 6-year-old girl grabbed the teen around the waist, which startled him and caused him to accidentally fire the gun. 

The bullet grazed the teen’s leg and struck the girl in the upper leg.

According to police, both victims were transported to Elkhart General Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. 

The handgun belonged to the children’s mother.

Police say this incident remains under investigation.