Butler father charged with shooting death of 3-year-old

A Butler, GA father has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter for the shooting death of a 3-year-old child. The Taylor County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of the father following an extensive investigation into the tragic shooting death of the child that occurred in March 2026 at a residence on Peters Road in Butler, Georgia.

The incident occurred when the child sustained a fatal self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Following the incident, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), with assistance from investigators of the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, conducted a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. As a result of the investigation, the child’s father, Dante Vinson, currently residing in Oglethorpe, Georgia, has been arrested and charged with the following offenses: one felony count of involuntary manslaughter and one misdemeanor count of reckless conduct.

The charges stem from the circumstances surrounding the child’s access to a firearm, which ultimately resulted in the child’s death. Sheriff John Sawyer of the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office stated: “This was an extremely tragic incident involving the loss of an innocent three-year-old child. No investigation or criminal charge can undo the loss of a young life. However, we have a responsibility to thoroughly investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable under Georgia law.”

“I want to personally thank the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the investigators with the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication and professionalism throughout this investigation. Their commitment to uncovering the facts and ensuring a thorough investigation demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies.”

“This tragedy should also serve as a reminder to every gun owner of the tremendous responsibility that comes with owning a firearm. Firearms must be properly secured and kept out of the reach of children. A moment of carelessness can result in consequences that can never be reversed,” the sheriff said.

Sheriff Sawyer and the entire Taylor County Sheriff’s Office extend their deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss. The Taylor County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting the citizens of Taylor County, conducting thorough criminal investigations, and holding individuals accountable when their actions result in the loss of innocent lives.