LOS ANGELES — A Banning, Calif., woman accidentally shot her 12-year-old daughter after pulling the trigger of a miniature revolver she had mistaken for a novelty cigarette lighter, authorities said Thursday.

Rachel Avila, 30, and her daughter were talking in front of their mobile home Sunday when Avila spotted what she thought was a novelty cigarette lighter lying on the ground, said officials with the Banning Police Department. It was shaped like a miniature firearm, police said.

Avila picked up the object and tried to light it by pulling the trigger, police said.

The first time, nothing happened, but her second attempt released a .22-caliber bullet.

"The bullet struck the ground, and then ricocheted upward and entered her daughter's upper right arm," Banning police said.

The girl was taken to a hospital, where she was treated and released.

Police officials advised residents to be wary of objects that resemble a firearm. "Do not handle the object, and call local law enforcement for assistance," authorities said.


Ah yes the first thing I like to do when I find a random gun on the ground is pull the trigger...bravo lady, please please please don't let your children anywhere near you.