Accidental Shooting at the Bridgeport Gun Range
To: All News Outlets
From: Jennifer Hansen, Public Information Officer
Date: June 26, 2013
RE: Accidental Shooting at the Bridgeport Gun Range
On the afternoon of Tuesday, June 25th, 2013, at approximately 4:30pm, Mono County Sheriff’s Dispatch received a 911 call for medical aid of a possible accidental shooting at the gun range in Bridgeport.
Mono County Sheriff’s Deputies, Mono County Paramedics, and Bridgeport Fire Department were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, it was determined that a father, age 57, and son, age 30, both out of county residents, were shooting at the range and had an accidental discharge of a rifle (.223). The bullet from the rifle struck victim one in his right leg. The bullet penetrated both legs and exited through the left foot. Victim two, who was standing next to victim one, sustained shrapnel injuries. Careflight was requested for both the victims. Antelope Valley Fire Department was put on standby at the Walker Ball Field for one of the two incoming Careflight’s. Victim one was flown from Bridgeport to Renown Medical Center in Reno for treatment of the gunshot wound and shrapnel injuries. Victim two was transported by Mono County Paramedics to the Walker Ball Field and then flown to Renown Medical Center in Reno for treatment of shrapnel injuries.
With unfortunate and accidental incidents such as this, it’s very important to remember basic firearm safety tips to ensure your own safety and the safety of those around you. Always treat all guns as if they are loaded, even if you think they are unloaded. Always keep the gun pointed in the safest possible direction. A “safe direction” is one where an accidental discharge of the gun will not cause any injury or damage. Always keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot. Know your target, its surroundings and beyond. Be aware of all the people around you before you shoot. Know how to properly operate your gun. Remember, it is your personal responsibility to ensure your weapon is secure and safe. Use firearm safety devices on the gun, such as a trigger lock or cable lock. For more gun safety tips, please visit the California Department of Justice Firearms Bureau website at http://oag.ca.gov/firearms.
