Desselgem (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – In Desselgem, Waregem, a 28-year-old man accidentally shot his older brother in a domestic firearm incident. Authorities are investigating the case.
The victim, 29, suffered severe injuries. Something went awry while the brothers were shooting at cans. Although the incident happened on Wednesday, it wasn’t made public until now.
On Wednesday afternoon, the two brothers were rehearsing in a residence in Nieuwstraat, Belgium. The younger sibling unintentionally shot his older brother at approximately 5:30 p.m.
A blow to the gut struck the older brother. The victim was brought to the hospital with severe injuries after other witnesses alerted emergency services. It is reported that he is in stable health.
The youngest brother was taken in by the police to be questioned. The public prosecutor’s office in West Flanders says it’s probably a tragic accident. A witness to the incident also stated that the brothers were not arguing. It is still necessary to question the victim.
What safety measures could prevent accidental shootings during casual activities?
Handle guns with the assumption that they are loaded at all times, even if you believe otherwise. This mindset reduces negligent handling and accidental discharges.
Never point the gun at anything you do not intend to shoot. A safe direction may be up or down, but it must be free of people or objects that could be harmed if the gun accidentally fires.
Avoid placing your finger on the trigger or inside the trigger guard except when you are actually aiming and ready to fire.
Always store firearms unloaded in locked locations, with ammunition stored separately and securely. Use gun locks, safes, or lock boxes to prevent unauthorized or accidental access, especially by children.
