21-year-old man seriously injured after ‘accidental’ shooting in Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A 21-year-old man was seriously injured in an accidental shooting in Salt Lake City Friday night, according to Salt Lake City police.

At about 5:20 p.m. on November 29, police responded to a shooting near Indiana Avenue and Emery Street.

When officers arrived at the scene, officers found a 21-year-old man with a gunshot wound and treated him. 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 “tampering” with the firearm, according to an SLCPD news release. The suspect, who is also a 21-year-old man, is accused of accidentally firing the gun and injuring his friend.

The suspect told police 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 the Salt Lake County Jail on charges of reckless endangerment and unlawful discharge of a firearm.

“Securing and handling firearms properly should always be a priority,” SLCPD said in a news release. “Safe storage and responsible handling can significantly minimize the risks of theft, accidental death, injury or damage caused by improper storage, use or handling of firearms.”

Here are some tips for safe firearm storage and safe handling of firearms, provided by SLCPD:

Use safe storage methods, such as key locks, combination locks, lock boxes or firearms safes.
Keep keys or combinations in a place inaccessible to children or unauthorized users.
Store ammunition in a separate, securely locked container.
Equip firearms with safety devices such as trigger locks or cable locks for added protection. Community members can obtain free cable locks at the Public Safety Building, located at 475 South 300 East, Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., holidays excluded.
Always treat any firearm as if it is loaded, even when you think it is not.
Clear your firearm properly, safely and deliberately. If someone else is present, communicate verbally to ensure they are aware of your actions and can help verify that the firearm has been properly cleared, if possible.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
Never point a firearm at something you do not intend to shoot.
Be aware of your target, what lies beyond it, and any dangers.
Even with the firearm pointed downward, a discharge can cause property damage, personal injury or death. This is why it is important to always know where the muzzle is pointed and what is near the muzzle.