UPDATE: A 42-year-old man has been hospitalized following a shocking accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound to his leg on Monday night in Beltrami County. The incident occurred at 11:11 p.m. on October 27, 2023, in Sugar Bush Township, just north of Birchmont Beach Road.
According to a press release from Beltrami County Sheriff Jason Riggs, the man was a passenger in a vehicle that had stopped on Hales Road. He exited the vehicle to unload a firearm when it accidentally discharged, striking his leg. The driver promptly notified emergency services and began heading towards Cass Lake Indian Health Service for immediate assistance.
Emergency responders intercepted the vehicle on Mission Road SE where they began providing critical medical care. The man confirmed that the shooting was accidental. He was subsequently transported to Sanford Bemidji Medical Center for further treatment.
Local authorities report that the situation is under control, with deputies being assisted by the Leech Lake Tribal Police Department and the Leech Lake Ambulance Service.
Residents are reminded to always handle firearms with extreme caution. This incident underscores the importance of safely storing and managing weapons to prevent accidental injuries.
Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.
