Dog Accidentally Shoots Owner in Memphis Incident
A peculiar incident occurred in Memphis, Tennessee, early Monday morning, resulting in a man sustaining a gunshot wound to his thigh. Jerald Kirkwood, 39, called emergency services just before 4 a.m. to report that his dog had unintentionally shot him.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, Kirkwood was in bed with a friend when his one-year-old pit bull, named Oreo, leaped onto the bed. During this moment, Oreo’s paw became entangled in the trigger guard of a firearm that Kirkwood had, leading to the gun being discharged and grazing Kirkwood’s left thigh.
Aftermath and Response
Upon being questioned by police, Kirkwood mentioned that his friend left the scene shortly after the shooting occurred, and she took the firearm with her. Authorities have yet to identify this woman, and her whereabouts remain unknown at the time of reporting.
The man’s injury was reported as non-critical, and he was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment. While a local journalist visited his residence later that day, Kirkwood was not present, although Oreo was found at the home.
Similar Incidents Highlight Safety Concerns
This case draws haunting parallels to a previous accidental shooting in southern New Mexico in 2018, where a 74-year-old hunter was injured when his dog’s paw triggered his rifle while it was in a truck. Fortunately, despite sustaining a serious injury, the man’s primary concern remained the safety of his dogs.
These incidents underscore the importance of gun safety, as unintentional discharges can happen in environments where pets are present. Pet owners are reminded to secure firearms properly to avoid similar mishaps in the future.
Conclusion
As this story develops, the community is left to reflect on the unexpected consequences of firearms in household settings, especially those involving pets. Authorities continue to investigate the shooting and the circumstances surrounding it.