MASSACHUSETTS — The State Police sergeant who was injured today in an accidental discharge of a department firearm remains at UMass Medical Center, where he was treated earlier today.
The sergeant was injured when his department-issued shotgun accidentally discharged while he was transporting it from his old cruiser to his new cruiser.
The discharge was buckshot (that is, a type of shotgun shell that breaks apart and releases pellet projectiles). Several projectiles struck one of the officer’s legs. The injuries are non-life threatening.
The investigation into the exact facts and circumstances of the discharge, and compliance with department weapons policy, is ongoing.
The sergeant is 51 years old, has been on the force since 1987, and is currently assigned to Troop H Headquarters in South Boston. His name is not being released at this time.
Colonel Richard McKeon and the Department are thankful that the sergeant’s injuries were not more serious. -MSP
