Dog Accused of Shooting Its Owner in Memphis
In a bizarre and unfortunate incident, a Memphis man was accidentally shot by his own dog while lying
in bed. The one-year-old pit bull, Oreo, reportedly jumped onto the bed, inadvertently pulling the trigger
of a loaded firearm and grazing his owner’s left thigh. The incident has sparked conversations about firearm safety and the risks associated with keeping unsecured weapons in the home, particularly in
households with pets. According to reports, the man, Jerald Kirkwood, was resting when Oreo’s playful movements caused the
gun to discharge. The woman present at the time, who has not been publicly identified, took the
weapon and left the residence immediately after the accident. Kirkwood was transported to the hospital
in non-critical condition, and police have classified the shooting as accidental, confirming that no
charges will be filed.
While incidents of pets accidentally discharging firearms are rare, they do occur. In recent years, similar
cases have been reported in Iowa and Mississippi, one of which resulted in a severe injury leading to
amputation. Firearm safety experts emphasize the importance of using gun safes, trigger locks, and
other safety measures to prevent accidental discharges, particularly in homes with children or animals.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of unsecured firearms and the need for
responsible gun ownership.