Dog Accidentally Shoots Owner in Pennsylvania, Investigation Underway

BREAKING: A man in Shillington, Pennsylvania, was shot in the back by his dog in a bizarre accident that has authorities investigating the circumstances. The incident unfolded around 11:13 PM on Tuesday when the unnamed 53-year-old man was cleaning his shotgun and left it on his bed.

Local police responded to reports of a shooting in the 300 block of State Street. Officers from the Shillington Police Department found the man with a significant back injury, prompting immediate transport to the hospital for initial surgery. His condition remains unclear at this time.

According to Corporal Michael Schoone, the dog inadvertently discharged the firearm after jumping onto the bed. Police are examining whether the dog’s paw may have accidentally engaged the trigger or if there was a malfunction with the weapon itself. A spent shell casing was discovered inside the shotgun, raising crucial questions about gun safety practices.

Authorities are urging gun owners to adhere to the “cardinal rules” of firearm safety, emphasizing the importance of keeping guns pointed in a safe direction and ensuring fingers are off the trigger. “This incident was the ‘perfect storm,'” Schoone stated, highlighting the unique and unfortunate circumstances that led to the shooting.

At the time of the accident, the man and his son were reportedly in separate rooms, while two other dogs were present in the house. As the investigation unfolds, police stress the need for caution and safety among gun owners to prevent similar incidents.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the Shillington Police Department continues to gather information. For more breaking news, follow our coverage.