FORT WORTH, TX (Thedailymiaminews) – A 26-year-old man, identified as Aubrey Khalil Hayes-Reed, tragically died on Monday evening following an accidental shooting at a local gun range. According to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office, Hayes-Reed was attempting to clear a firearm at the Shoot Smart Gun Range in far North Fort Worth when the weapon malfunctioned and discharged, striking him in the head.
The fatal incident occurred before 9 p.m., and although the exact cause and manner of death were not detailed in the report, police confirmed that Hayes-Reed died shortly after emergency medical personnel arrived on the scene. Witnesses at the range reported that Hayes-Reed had been trying to clear the firearm when it discharged, hitting him in the forehead. First responders provided immediate treatment at the location, but the injuries were fatal.
“It appears to be purely accidental,” said a spokesman for the Fort Worth Police Department. Authorities also emphasized that no foul play was suspected, and the investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
The management at Shoot Smart Gun Range expressed their condolences in a public statement, extending their deepest sympathies to Hayes-Reed’s family and friends. “The safety of our patrons and staff is paramount to Shoot Smart,” the statement read. “Our team is fully working with law enforcement agencies to assist with the ongoing investigation.”
Police have not yet disclosed any further details regarding the malfunction or the firearm involved, but they assured the public that safety protocols were being followed during the investigation. The incident has raised questions about firearm safety and how such accidents can be prevented in the future.
Hayes-Reed, who was a resident of Fort Worth, was known to friends and family as a responsible individual with an interest in firearms. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the malfunction and whether any mechanical issues may have contributed to the fatal incident.
The gun range has pledged to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation. As the community mourns, law enforcement urges gun owners to always exercise caution when handling firearms, especially when clearing or performing maintenance on weapons.