Alaska News

Teen shot in head at friend’s house after gun accidentally discharges

A teenager was shot in the head at a friend’s South Anchorage home just after noon Wednesday, police say.

The boy was taken to the hospital with injuries described as not life-threatening, according to an Anchorage Police Department update.

A teenager and three friends including the victim were at his home in the 7600 block of Little Bend Circle when he retrieved the revolver, police said. He was manipulating it when it discharged and hit the victim in the head, police said. The teens immediately called 911 and rendered aid until first responders arrived.

Police declined to release specific information about the incident.

All of the teens are younger than 18, including the one who was shot, police spokesman MJ Thim said.

He is lucky to be alive, Thim said.

“Guns should not be played with,” he said. “This reinforces every aspect of gun safety.”

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The three teens with the shooting victim were taken to the police department for questioning, police said. They were alone in the home.

The Anchorage School District released a message alerting parents to the incident: “Safety is a priority for the District and we all need to work together to ensure our children are safe whether at school, home, or out in the community. If your family owns guns, please ensure they are securely locked in a safe place.”

The district declined to identify where the teens attend school.

Zaz Hollander

Zaz Hollander is a veteran journalist based in the Mat-Su and is currently an ADN local news editor and reporter. She covers breaking news, the Mat-Su region, aviation and general assignments. Contact her at zhollander@adn.com.

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