MSP: 77 percent of accidental gun deaths happen in the home

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich. — Michigan State Police (MSP) said 77 percent of accidental gun deaths happen in the home.  In response, MSP is reminding gun owners to always treat a firearm as if it were loaded.  The safety warning comes after a 75-year old Peninsula Township man accidentally shot himself while cleaning his handgun Sunday morning.  Police responded to a call at a residence on Peninsula Drive at approximately 11:45 a.m.

“They assumed they’re unloaded and they begin cleaning and that’s when they had the accidental discharge,” said Lt. Derrick Caroll. “Before you even handle your weapon, double-check and always, always handle a gun as if it were loaded,” Lt. Carroll said.

The man was treated and transported by Peninsula EMS to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City for a non-life-threatening injury to his left leg.