Dog accidentally shoots owner while jumping on bed in Memphis

In Memphis, Tennessee, a man named Jerald Kirkwood faced an unusual and unfortunate accident one early morning when he was lying in bed with a friend. His one-year-old pit bull, named Oreo, jumped onto the bed and accidentally discharged a firearm that was within reach. The man's thigh was grazed by the bullet as the dog's paw got caught in the gun's trigger guard, inadvertently causing the weapon to fire. This incident took place just before 4 a.m. on a Monday, and Kirkwood was subsequently taken to a hospital where he was reported to be in non-critical condition. The local authorities responded promptly to the emergency call. Upon their arrival, officers learned that the female friend with whom Kirkwood was sharing the bed took the weapon with her when she left the home shortly after the gun went off. A spent shell casing was found in the living room, which indicated that the shot had indeed been fired. The incident raised concerns about firearm safety, particularly in households with pets. Tennessee law does not currently mandate that firearm owners store their weapons in a safe manner or lock them away, which often leads to unfortunate situations. In light of this incident, the Memphis Police Department urged people to use gun locks and offered them for free at precincts. This case highlights the potential dangers of keeping firearms readily accessible within a home, especially where pets who may unintentionally cause accidents are present. Kirkwood’s experience serves as a cautionary tale to owners of firearms and pets alike, illustrating the importance of responsible gun ownership. While dogs are often beloved companions, incidents like this remind us that precautions need to be taken to ensure safety for both humans and animals in the household environment.