SNOHOMISH — A Snohomish man allegedly shot his girlfriend in the shoulder during an argument Monday.

He was arrested about 3 p.m. The woman, 19, was taken to Providence Regional Medical Center Everett.

The man, 20, claimed he fired the .45 caliber gun by accident. Police allege that the trajectory of the bullet showed he had been standing over her.

The police report alleges that the suspect repeatedly has pointed the gun at her in the past as part of a pattern of violence in their home in downtown Snohomish. Investigators say the violence was escalating.

The man was being held Tuesday at the Snohomish County Jail on suspicion of assault. He also faces questions about how he purchased the firearm without the required paperwork.

If you or someone you know needs help regarding domestic violence, contact the Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County hotline at 425-25-ABUSE, or 425-252-2873. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.