A handgun that went off in a man's pocket caused police response to a busy shopping area Monday evening.

Corpus Christi police were called to a retail store in the 5400 block of South Padre Island Drive about 5:46 p.m. after reports of shots being fired Monday.

A gun had been fired. But officers were told it was an accident, according to a news release from the department.

A man told officers "his handgun accidentally discharged while the weapon was concealed in his pocket," the release states.

The man is cooperating with officers. No injuries were reported and there is "no threat to the public," the release states.

Officers remained at the store to investigate the incident.

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Gun safety tips

Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction

Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot

Keep the gun unloaded until ready to use

Use the correct ammunition for the gun

Never use alcohol, over-the-counter or prescription drugs before using a gun

Source: National Rifle Association