PIEDMONT– An 18-year-old was airlifted Monday following an accidental shooting at the MAPCO on U.S. 278 East.
Piedmont Police identified the injured man as Elijah Young. Officers found Young suffering from a gunshot wound to his left leg.
The incident happened at approximately 11 a.m. on July 20. Piedmont Police officers responded alongside the Piedmont Fire Department and Piedmont Rescue Squad.
Bystanders Provide Aid Before Responders Arrive
Several bystanders began helping Young before emergency personnel arrived. Among them was an off-duty Anniston Police Department officer.
Police said the officer used a belt to create a makeshift tourniquet. The officer applied the tourniquet to help control Young’s bleeding.
The Anniston Police Department posted about the officers actions:
We are incredibly proud of one of our officers, who stepped up while off duty to help during today’s incident in Piedmont.He used his training to provide lifesaving aid until on-duty emergency responders arrived. His actions are a reminder that the commitment to serve others doesn’t end when the uniform comes off.We continue to keep the young man who was injured in our thoughts and prayers and wish him a full and speedy recovery.
According to Piedmont Police, those actions helped stabilize Young until emergency medical personnel arrived.
Piedmont Fire and Rescue personnel treated Young at the scene. Emergency crews then airlifted him for further medical treatment.
Police said the latest information from Young’s family indicated he should be okay.
Police Rule Piedmont MAPCO Shooting Accidental
The preliminary investigation found that the shooting resulted from negligent firearm handling. Police said the firearm discharged while inside Young’s vehicle.
Officers secured the firearm as evidence. However, police do not anticipate filing criminal charges.
The Piedmont Police Department has completed its investigation. Officers officially ruled the incident an accidental shooting.
Piedmont Police Chief Nathan Johnson commended the bystanders who assisted Young. He especially recognized the off-duty Anniston officer for providing immediate care.
Johnson also reminded the public to handle firearms responsibly. He said every firearm should be treated as loaded and pointed in a safe direction.
The chief warned that firearms should never be handled carelessly or treated as toys. He said one moment of negligence can have life-changing consequences.
Johnson also wished Young a full and speedy recovery.
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