JACKSON COUNTY, Mich. — A 42-year-old Jackson County woman is in serious condition after police said a family member accidentally shot her on Christmas morning.
The 22-year-old male relative was showing family members how to disassemble a handgun, but the gun was loaded and went off, hitting the woman. Police said the man believed the gun wasn't loaded.
"Everyone is kind of pointing to the same story that it appears to be an accidental shooting," said Lt. Jeremy Barnett, of the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.
The sheriff's office responded to a call around 9 AM Tuesday on Allman Road that someone had been shot.
"We know the bullet entered the shoulder and went into the body and did internal damage," said Barnett.
There is no one way to disassemble a gun since all guns are different. Some advice from police is to check the manufacturer suggestions for a proper breakdown. This and other information can be found online. And, if you still have questions, the sheriff's office says it doesn't mind if you stop by to ask a few questions.
"We are more than happy to help you to discuss gun safety with them, go over some basic rules of proper muzzle discipline, treating a weapon as it's loaded at all times. Keeping your finger off the trigger, basic things like that," said Barnett.
The Jackson County Sheriff's Office does not provide classes but will answer questions.
At this time, police are not releasing names because no one has been charged. However, police said they are hoping for the best for this family.
"Thoughts and prayers are with her and the family. On Christmas, it's a horrible time for something like this to happen. And we obviously wish her the best and a speedy recovery," said Barnett.
Right now, police said they have no reason to believe the gun was not registered, or that the man is a repeat offender of any kind.
The police report will be sent over to the Jackson County prosecutor for review and possible criminal charges.
