PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (PCSO) – The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) is currently investigating an accidental shooting incident that took place in Seminole. On October 3, 2023, at approximately 12:23 a.m., deputies responded to the Seminole Community Center after receiving reports of an individual who had sustained a gunshot wound.
Upon conducting their investigation, the detectives learned that the victim, along with 20-year-old Hayden Fogerty and 17-year-old Caidyn Knuth, had been present at the location engaged in smoking marijuana. It was determined that Fogerty had a firearm in his possession and while manipulating it, it accidentally discharged, causing the victim to be hit in the face.
During interviews with the detectives, both Fogerty and Knuth admitted to attempting to conceal the firearm and the shell casing by discarding them in a nearby pond. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team promptly responded and successfully recovered the firearm from the pond.
As a result of their findings, Fogerty was charged with one count of Tampering with Physical Evidence and was subsequently transported to the Pinellas County Jail. Knuth, on the other hand, was charged with one count of Tampering with Physical Evidence and was taken to the Pinellas County Juvenile Assessment Center (PJAC) due to his age.
Fortunately, the victim was expeditiously transported to the hospital and is currently in stable condition. The investigation into the incident is still ongoing as the detectives aim to gather further evidence and gather a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the accidental shooting.
Incidents like these serve as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers associated with mishandling firearms. The PCSO urges all individuals to exercise extreme caution and adhere to proper firearm safety protocols at all times. It is crucial to remember that firearms are not toys and mishandling them can have severe consequences.
Furthermore, this incident also highlights the potential risks involved in engaging in illegal activities such as drug use. Although marijuana may be legalized for recreational or medicinal purposes in certain jurisdictions, it is important to note that its use remains illegal in other areas. Engaging in illegal activities can not only lead to legal consequences but can also inadvertently expose individuals to hazardous situations.
The PCSO is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community it serves. Through diligent investigations and the collaboration of various specialized units within the Sheriff’s Office, they strive to maintain law and order. By promptly responding to incidents and diligently pursuing justice, the PCSO endeavors to create a secure environment where residents can lead their lives without fear.
Accidental shootings can have devastating consequences, not only for the victims but also for the individuals responsible. The PCSO hopes that this incident serves as a reminder for individuals to exercise caution and respect when handling firearms. Responsible firearm ownership, including proper storage, handling, and education, is of utmost importance to prevent such accidents from occurring.
In conclusion, the accidental shooting in Seminole served as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with firearms. The incident involved individuals engaged in illegal drug use, further emphasizing the risks involved in such activities. The PCSO continues to investigate the incident and encourages the community to prioritize firearm safety and responsible behavior. By working together, we can strive to prevent accidents and create a safer environment for all.
