A 20-year-old Private First Class assigned to 101st Airborne Division (Airborne), Fort Campbell, Kentucky, died in privately owned weapon mishap 27 December 2018 in Clarksville, Tennessee, at 2045 local. The Soldier was visiting a private residence when he picked up a semi-automatic pistol that did not have a magazine inserted. While handling the weapon, a round discharged and struck the Soldier. Alcohol was reported as being involved in the mishap.
- Firearms are designed to be deadly weapons and alcohol can have an adverse impact on your physical and mental balance. Never mix alcohol and weapons, and always THINK weapons safety!
- Treat every weapon as if it is loaded.
- Handle every weapon with care.
- Identify the target before you fire.
- Never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
- Keep the weapon on safe and your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire.