TEMPLE – A 20-year-old man is expected to recover after he accidentally shot himself in the hip while target practicing on Saturday.
Chad Baker of Temple was driven by a friend to Franklin Memorial Hospital at noon on Saturday after his 9 mm handgun accidentally fired as he was reloading in an area off Maple Street, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department. Sgt. Steve Lowell and Deputy Ken Charles responded to the report of a gunshot wound at the hospital.
The officers concluded it was an accidental shooting due to mishandling and a possible malfunction of the Baker’s gun. No charges were filed.
“The incident highlights the need for proper training when handling firearms,” Charles noted and, “Proper maintenance and repair of firearms should also be promoted.”
Baker underwent treatment and expected to recover fully, the officers said in their report.
