Statement on Recent Firearm Discharge Accident at Top Guns

Published on March 5, 2025
Duration: 4:19

This video addresses a negligent discharge incident at Top Guns range in Tero, Indiana. Instructor Steve Ellis explains how a leather holster flap entered the trigger guard, causing an accidental discharge when the firearm was holstered. He emphasizes the importance of inspecting holsters and demonstrates a technique to mitigate potential injury during reholstering by angling the body and firearm away from the leg.

Quick Summary

A negligent discharge occurred at Top Guns when a leather holster flap entered the trigger guard, causing an accidental discharge during holstering. Instructor Steve Ellis recommends visually inspecting holsters for obstructions and adopting a safe reholstering technique to mitigate injury risks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Incident Overview
  2. 00:15How the Negligent Discharge Occurred
  3. 00:54Injury Details and Immediate Response
  4. 01:13Staff Performance and Life-Saving Actions
  5. 01:53Holster Safety and Prevention Strategies
  6. 02:31Risks of Leather Flap Holsters
  7. 03:00Preventing Trigger Guard Obstructions
  8. 03:15Safe Reholstering Technique Demonstration
  9. 04:02Conclusion and Safety Reminders

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the negligent discharge occur at Top Guns range?

A negligent discharge occurred when a leather holster flap got into the trigger guard of a firearm. As the individual holstered the weapon, the flap depressed the trigger, causing an accidental discharge that resulted in a leg injury.

What are the key safety recommendations for holstering a firearm?

Always visually inspect your holster for obstructions like flaps or clothing before reholstering. Adopt a stance where your leg is not in the direct line of fire and consider leaning slightly away from the firearm's path.

What was the outcome of the firearm discharge accident?

The individual sustained a leg injury and lost a significant amount of blood. Thanks to the quick actions of the Top Guns staff who applied tourniquets, the bleeding was stopped, and the individual was transported to the hospital in stable condition.

Can drawstrings or clothing cause accidental firearm discharges?

Yes, drawstrings from jackets or even the end of a shirt can potentially get into a firearm's trigger guard. If this happens during holstering, it can depress the trigger and cause an accidental discharge.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Top Guns

View all →