Police issue statement over Shropshire shooting tragedy
Police investigating an incident in which a man died from a gunshot wound while hunting rabbits on farmland in Shropshire, have issued a statement to counter reports and speculation about the circumstances.
Following the incident at Brockton, Lydbury North, near Bishop’s Castle on Friday night, West Mercia Police yesterday said the circumstances were still being investigated but it appeared to be “a tragic accident”.
Local and national newspaper reports have indicated the man was shot by a friend who stumbled causing his weapon to discharge.
Detective Inspector Mark Bellamy said today: “These reports are unfounded and have caused further distress to the families of those involved.
“At no point have the police released specific details beyond saying it appears to be a tragic accident. This is because the circumstances are still under investigation and when completed, a full report will be submitted to the Shropshire coroner.
“However, due to the concern over media speculation and unfounded statements, the coroner has sanctioned the following comment designed to clarify matters.
“At this stage of the investigation, there is no evidence to suggest that another person’s gun was fired. It would appear the victim’s own gun accidentally discharged resulting in the fatal injury.”
A post mortem is being held this afternoon and an inquest is due to open later in the week. The man has not yet been formally named but is thought to be a 30-year-old from Staffordshire.
