This post has already been read at least 11406 times!
HAZLE TOWNSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA — August 18, 2026: A parent sustained a gunshot wound after a handgun accidentally discharged while he was securing the weapon inside his vehicle near Hazleton Area High School in Hazle Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:00 a.m. Tuesday as the parent arrived at the school with his child for ninth-grade orientation, according to a news release issued by the Hazleton Area School District Police Department.
Police said the parent was securing a handgun in his vehicle before entering the school when the firearm accidentally discharged.
The projectile struck the man’s leg before lodging in the driver’s-side door of the vehicle. Authorities said no other injuries were reported in the incident.
The Hazleton Area School District Police Department said the incident remains under investigation, while assuring the public that there was no danger to the general public.
The investigation was being conducted with assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop N in Hazleton, and the Hazle Township Fire and Rescue Company.
Authorities also used the incident to remind members of the public about Section 912 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, which addresses possession of weapons on school property.
Under the provision cited by police, possessing a weapon in school buildings, on school grounds or in vehicles providing transportation to or from specified elementary and secondary educational institutions constitutes a first-degree misdemeanor.
The circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge, including the handling of the firearm and the events leading up to the shooting, remain subject to the ongoing investigation.
The incident occurred as families were arriving for school orientation, but authorities said there was no indication that any other person was injured or that the wider public faced a threat.
This post has already been read at least 11406 times!
