THIS MOBILE HOME was the scene of a reported accidental shooting Thursday. A teenage boy reportedly accidentally shot his brother in the shoulder. Banner photo, GREG KAYLOR
The boy was flown to Erlanger Medical Center for treatment for the non-life threatening injury.
According to Bob Gault, media relations coordinator for the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office, several deputies responded to a mobile home on Benton Pike near the intersection of Gatlin Road, after the report of a child being shot.
The victim and his four siblings are reportedly home-schooled and their mother had just left for a few minutes to check on another family member who lives close by, according to Gault.
Bradley County’s Criminal Investigations Division detectives don’t believe the shooting was intentional.
“The investigation continues but at this time it appears the 14-year-old brother to the victim was examining a .40 caliber handgun when it discharged, striking the victim in the shoulder,” Gault said of his and other investigators’ findings.
No charges have been filed at this time, according to Gault.
Bradley County Emergency Medical Service paramedics arrived on the scene and determined the child needed to be transferred to Erlanger Medical Center.
A LifeForce helicopter was dispatched to the scene and flew the boy to EMC for further treatment.
According to Gault, five siblings were inside the home at the time of the shooting.
The younger children were left in the care of an older sister who is reportedly 16 years old.
“Investigation is continuing and no charges have been filed at this time,” Gault said.
The condition of the victim is unknown.
