SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A 21-year-old man was critically injured in an accidental shooting in Salt Lake City Friday night, according to Salt Lake City Police.
At around 5:20 p.m. on Nov. 29, police responded to a shooting near Indiana Avenue and Emery Street.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers found a 21-year-old man with a gunshot wound and provided him with medical care. They also secured the firearm involved and other evidence.
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Based on the preliminary investigation, police believe the man and his friend were outside “manipulating” the firearm, according to a press release from SLCPD. The suspect, who is also a 21-year-old man, is accused of inadvertently firing the gun, wounding his friend.
The suspect told officers he did not intend to shoot his friend.
Paramedics reportedly took the victim to the hospital in critical but stable condition. His injuries are not considered life-threatening, police said.
Officers booked the suspect into Salt Lake County Jail on charges of reckless endangerment and unlawful discharge of a firearm.
“Properly securing and handling firearms should always be a priority,” SLCPD stated in a press release. “Safe storage and responsible handling practices can significantly minimize the chances of theft, unintentional death, injury, or damage caused by improper storage, use, or handling of firearms.”
Here are some tips for safe firearm storage and safe firearm handling practices, provided by SLCPD:
Use secure storage methods, such as keyed locks, combination locks, lockboxes, or firearm safes.
Store keys or combinations in a location inaccessible to children or unauthorized users.
Keep ammunition in a separate, securely locked container.
Equip firearms with safety devices like trigger locks or cable locks for added protection. Community members can get free cable locks at the Public Safety Building, located at 475 South 300 East, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., holidays excluded.
Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded, even when you believe it is not.
Properly, safely, and intentionally clear your firearm. If someone else is present, communicate, verbally, to make sure they are aware of your actions and can help verify that the firearm has been properly cleared, if able.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
Be aware of your target, what lies beyond it, and any potential hazards.
Even with the firearm pointed down, a discharge can cause property damage, injury, or death. This is why it’s important to always know where the muzzle is pointed and what is near the muzzle.
No further information is available at this time.