By Linus Flomo
/BASSA
What began as a quiet day in the small community of Monwell Statutory District, River Cess County, turned into a tragedy for 10-year-old Erison Joe.
The young boy was left permanently injured after accidentally discharging his father’s single-barrel gun while playing at home earlier this year.
The devastating incident, which occurred in February, has left Erison without his right hand and with a long road ahead physically, emotionally, and educationally.
According to family members, Erison discovered the firearm unattended inside the house.
Unaware of the danger, he began handling the loaded weapon when it suddenly went off.
The blast severely damaged his hand, forcing doctors at the Liberian Agriculture Company (LAC) hospital in Grand Bassa County to perform an emergency amputation.
“He didn’t know it was dangerous,” said Sarah Logan, Erison’s maternal aunt and now primary caregiver. “He was just playing like any other child. In one moment, his life was turned upside down.”
Logan, who spoke to reporters in the Peachuezohn Community on Friday, April 25, said the accident has left the family reeling.
Despite the trauma, she is determined to help her nephew recover and rebuild his future.
“Erison is strong. He still talks about going to school, about becoming someone in life,” she shared. “But we can’t do it alone we need help,”
Sarah Logan said, appealing to the public for support.
The family is seeking assistance to ensure Erison can continue his education, access therapy, and receive the adaptive tools he now needs to live with his disability.
The list of needs includes school supplies, transportation to medical appointments, and emotional and physical rehabilitation.
The incident has also reignited discussions around gun safety and child protection in rural areas, where firearms are often kept in homes without proper storage or safeguards.
Community leaders are joining the call for assistance and urging responsible gun ownership to prevent similar tragedies.
Anyone willing to support Erison Joe’s recovery and education is encouraged to reach out through verified local contacts or community support networks already engaged in the effort.
“Please,” his aunt pleaded. “Help us give him a second chance help us give him hope.”
