A Roland man charged with felony manslaughter in the second degree following the death of a 2-year-old who accidentally shot and killed themself after a firearm was reportedly left within reach, is now scheduled for a docket in Sequoyah County District Court.

Thomas Goddard, 25, was formally charged on April 9 and a warrant was issued for his arrest the same day. He received a $5,000 bond and is set for a 9 a.m. April 24 felony disposition docket before Associate District Judge Kyle Waters.

Roland Police officer Jason Stone reported on the afternoon of Oct. 23, 2023, officers were dispatched to a residence on Circle C South after reports of a 2-year-old being shot. Roland Assistant Police Chief Chris Waters and first responder Cody Click transported the infant to Baptist hospital where the infant was pronounced deceased.

According to the probable cause affidavit filed in the case, witnesses were interviewed and reported that Goddard had allegedly went to sleep after laying his firearm on a dresser. The infant was then able to get to the weapon, shooting themself.

Goddard told authorities he’d received some gun safety as a boy but nothing formal. He also reportedly told investigators that the infant was “too young” but he had taught the infant “not to touch,” according to the affidavit.

If found guilty of the crime, District Attorney Jack Thorp said it is punishable by two to four years imprisonment in the penitentiary or in the county jail not exceeding one year, or a fine of up to $1,000, or both.