Woman hurt in Kings County shooting range accident

KINGS COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- A woman accidentally shot herself at a South Valley shooting range this weekend. Investigators say a bullet rolled off a table and hit the ground, causing it to discharge and hit the woman in the leg.

They say this is a freak accident, but the Kings County Sheriff's Office says it also serves as a good reminder to always be careful around firearms and ammunition.

Important rules at gun ranges keep shooters safe, but no rule could've prevented the accidental shooting at Lemoore Sportsman's Club this weekend.

Kings County Assistant Sheriff Dave Putnam says Maria Ramos, 48, was at the range when a .22 caliber bullet fell off a table.

"It landed in such a manner that it went off when it hit the concrete surface," said Putnam.

It discharged, hitting Ramos in the leg. The sheriff's office says this kind of accident is rare, but it can happen with a .22 caliber bullet.

"It doesn't have a specific firing pin that has to be hit with a hammer, it is a rim-fire round that any kind of strike can cause the gunpowder to explode and discharge the bullet," said Putnam.

Ramos was taken to the hospital where she was treated and released. Now she's recovering at home.

Her strange accident is something everyone can learn from.

"Treat every firearm like it's loaded and be careful with the bullets. A live bullet can be dangerous if dropped," said Putnam.

Action News spoke with Ramos' family on Monday. They say she's doing well and is expected to make a full recovery.