CHANDLER, Ariz., Aug. 8 (UPI) -- Police in Arizona are urging residents to practice handgun safety after a man shot himself in the penis while putting a gun in the waistband of his pants.

Chandler police said Joshua Seto, 27, shot himself at about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday when he walked to Fry's Food Store with his fiancee, Cara Christopher, and attempted to secure her pink handgun in his waistband, The Arizona Republic reported Monday.


The bullet also struck Seto in the left thigh. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Chandler Police spokesman Seth Tyler said it was unclear whether Seto suffered any permanent damage from the incident.

Tyler said officials are urging residents to practice handgun safety.

"Whenever you handle a firearm, whether you are a novice or experienced, always treat firearms as though they are loaded," Tyler said. "If you are going to carry a handgun on your person, use a holster, not your waistband."