DETROIT – Police said a 15-year-old girl was shot by her father after he said his rifle accidentally discharged while attempting to put the weapon away.
The incident happened at approximately 10:45 p.m. in the 13000 block of Glastonbury on Detroit’s west side.
Police said the girl’s father claimed he heard shots fired outside his home, so he retrieved his rifle for protection.
After attempting to put the weapon away, the father said the rifle accidentally discharged, striking his 15-year-old daughter on her thigh.
The girl’s father placed her in his car and attempted to drive her to the hospital, but pulled over to flag down a passing ambulance.
The girl was taken to Grace Hospital and doctors said although she may need surgery due to a large exit wound, she is expected to be OK.
The girl’s father has a long criminal record which includes five previous prison sentences from felony charges stemming from operating a chop shop to assault.
He was released from prison in November, 2015.
Detroit police said alcohol may have been a factor in the shooting but said the father is not in custody.
The home where the teen lived, which is protected by a large privacy fence, was said to be riddled with bullet holes.
Police say the girl's mother was taken into custody on unrelated charges.