Crime & Safety

Man, 22, Accidentally Shoots Self In Leg While Cleaning Gun: Tinley PD

Police at the scene applied a tourniquet and rendered aid until the man was taken to a hospital, where he underwent surgery.

TINLEY PARK, IL — A Tinley Park man is expected to make a full recovery after accidentally shooting himself in the leg while cleaning his gun Monday, police said.

Tinley Park police officers responded Monday evening to a report of an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound at a residence in the 8400 block of West 162nd Street.

Officers found a 22-year-old man suffering from a severe gunshot wound to the upper leg. Recognizing the life-threatening nature of the injury, officers quickly applied a tourniquet and rendered emergency aid, police said. They also secured the gun and ensured the scene was safe until firefighters and paramedics arrived and assumed medical care.

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The man was taken to Christ Hospital for emergency treatment, where he underwent surgery and is in stable condition. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Police said the injury resulted from an apparent accidental discharge while the man was handling and cleaning his gun. At this time, there is no evidence of foul play or criminal conduct, police said.

Find out what's happening in Tinley Parkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"The Tinley Park Police Department commends the responding officers for their quick actions, professionalism, and lifesaving efforts," police said. "The department also recognizes the outstanding teamwork of the firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, detectives, and evidence technicians whose coordinated response contributed to this positive outcome.

"The police department wishes the man a full and speedy recovery."

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