Matthew Glowicki

Louisville Courier Journal

A man attempting to unload his weapon at a Bass Pro Shops in Clarksville, Ind., accidentally shot himself in the foot Wednesday, police say.

"The incident took place outside the entry turnstiles while waiting for a greeter to provide him with a trigger lock to clear his firearm before entering the store," said Jack Wlezien, director of communications for Bass Pro.

Store policy in Indiana requires those wanting to have their weapon serviced first unload and put a trigger lock on the firearm, he said.

"When he tried to empty the weapon, he apparently had his finger on the trigger and shot himself in the foot," said Clarksville Police Det. Scott Merchant in an interview.

Wlezien said the man shot himself in the toe and received first aid. The injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

The large sporting goods and outdoors store is located at the site of the old River Falls Mall off Veterans Parkway.

"Handle your weapons safely," Merchant said. "Keep your finger off the trigger unless you're going to fire."

Reporter Matthew Glowicki can be reached at 502-582-4989 or mglowicki@courier-journal.com.