Sheriff’s Office describes shot as accidental
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has determined that a July 31 shooting at the High Noon Guns shooting range on Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota was accidental, the agency reported on Aug. 2.
The gunshot wound was self-inflicted, a news release pointed out, adding that the Sheriff’s Office “has credited the quick and decisive actions of the responding deputies in saving the victim’s life.”
The release explained, “After assessing the severity of the victim’s injury, deputies quickly applied a chest seal, which is an occlusive dressing that prevents air from entering the chest cavity after a penetrating injury.” Following that, the release added, “Sarasota County Fire Department paramedics continued lifesaving efforts and transported [the male victim] to Sarasota Memorial Hospital,” where he was recovering.
The victim was not identified.
“The immediate and lifesaving actions of these deputies are a testament to their training, dedication and commitment to the safety, security, and aid to the Sarasota County community,” the release said.
On July 31, the agency noted in an earlier news release, the Sheriff’s Office dispatched deputies to High Noon Guns after receiving a report about “a male subject with a gunshot wound.” They arrived on the scene at about 3:38 p.m., that release pointed out.
The gun range is located at 4583 Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota, east of the McIntosh Road intersection.
In that initial release, the Sheriff’s Office advised the public that investigators did not believe the incident posed any threat to the public.
On its website, High Noon Guns says, “Enhance your shooting prowess at our [U.S. Concealed Carry Association] USCCA-sponsored shooting range. With a state-of-the-art facility boasting nine lanes in Sarasota and 11 lanes in Venice.”
The business website adds, “We provide a safer, greener, and cooler gun range experience. Join us for a shooting class or enjoy air-conditioned lanes for a refreshing practice session. Elevate your shooting skills effortlessly at the premier gun ranges in Sarasota and Venice.”
Further, the website makes it clear that High Noon Guns has a variety of membership levels. Those range from $300 on an annual basis to a “Basic” membership, which has a $20 fee. The business also allows a person to purchase a $25 one-day pass.
“Everyone Must Be A Member to Shoot,” the website’s Rules & Regulations note, and “Everyone Must Sign A Waiver.”
Moreover, the Rules & Regulations point out, “No One Under The Age Of 18 Is Allowed In The Range Without A Parent/Guardian.”
Along with the Sarasota and Venice locations, the business has a facility in Bradenton, the website adds.