MERRILLVILLE, Ind. — Police say an Indiana man is facing charges after his 3-year-old daughter accidentally shot her pregnant mother with a gun he left in the woman’s car.

Merrillville police say Menzo Brazier of Michigan City was charged Thursday with criminal recklessness and neglect of a dependent. The 21-year-old is currently jailed.

Investigators say Shanique Thomas was waiting in the car Tuesday as Brazier was inside a nearby thrift store. Thomas told detectives she heard a loud pop and realized she was bleeding.

Detective Sgt. James Bogner says the child “had no idea what she had done and she was very scared.”

Police allege Brazier left a loaded handgun between the center arm rest and the front passenger seat. Investigators say a bullet passed through the driver’s seat, Thomas and the windshield.

Thomas underwent surgery and suffered nerve damage.