Memphis Man Shot by Dog in Freak Accident Raises Gun Safety Questions

A Memphis man was grazed by a bullet when his pit bull puppy accidentally fired a gun on his bed. The bizarre incident occurred this week as he rested with a friend and his dog Oreo leapt up triggering the weapon. Police say it highlights the unpredictable risks of unsecured firearms in homes.

The man told officers he was lying down when Oreo’s paw got caught in the gun’s trigger guard. The puppy’s movement discharged the weapon grazing his upper left thigh. He received medical attention for the non-life-threatening injury and is expected to recover.

Memphis police are investigating how the loaded gun ended up accessible on the bed. No charges have been filed as they determine if negligence played a role. The case underscores broader concerns about firearm safety around pets and children.

Animal behavior experts note dogs can inadvertently cause harm with objects they don’t understand. Pit bulls like Oreo are strong and curious often leading to unexpected actions. This incident fuels debates over responsible gun ownership in pet-friendly homes.

The man’s friend witnessed the chaotic moment but was unharmed. Neighbors expressed shock calling it a wake-up call for their community. Memphis has seen rising gun-related incidents prompting calls for stricter storage laws.

Advocates for gun control argue this accident shows why weapons need secure safes. They point to preventable injuries that burden families and healthcare systems. Opponents say it’s a rare fluke not a policy failure stressing personal accountability.

Oreo the puppy remains with the owner who insists it was a freak mishap. Police urge residents to lock up firearms to avoid similar scares. The story has gone viral sparking both sympathy and outrage online.

This isn’t the first time pets have triggered guns but it’s a stark reminder of the stakes. It may push Memphis leaders to rethink outreach on gun safety education. For now the man and Oreo face a long road to normalcy after their brush with disaster.