SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating three recent incidents of unsafe firearm handling and storage led to injuries.
According to Wichita Police, two incidents involved negligent firearm handling. Near 2900 S. Glenn in Wichita, a 50-year-old man accidentally shot himself while handling a firearm. Near 900 S. St. Francis, a loaded handgun discharged inside a vehicle by a 17-year-old boy striking another 17-year-old passenger. EMS transported the victims from both incidents to area hospitals. They are expected to recover. However, the 17-year-olds are uncooperative with the police investigation.
A third incident occurred near 9450 East Harry in Wichita. A 32-year-old stole a rifle from an unlocked vehicle parked at a Dillon's Grocery Store. While attempting to conceal the weapon in his pants, the rifle discharged, injuring him. He was transported to an area hospital and is expected to survive. He will be booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on related charges.
These cases highlight the dangers of unsafe firearm practices including leaving firearms unsecured in vehicls and improper handling, which can result in serious injury and put others at risk.