News

R.I. Deputy Sheriff investigated for accidental discharge of firearm in hotel

ROCKLAND, Mass. -- A Rhode Island Deputy Sheriff has been placed on administrative duty pending an investigation into the accidental discharge of his off-duty weapon at a hotel in Rockland on Saturday night, according to Rhode Island Department of Public Safety Spokeswoman Laura Meade Kirk.

Kirk told Boston 25 News the Deputy Sheriff was securing his personal off-duty handgun in his room at the Comfort Inn when the weapon accidentally discharged around 7 p.m. Saturday. The bullet hit a wall, but no one was hurt.

Kirk said the Deputy Sheriff immediately contacted Rockland Police, who investigated the incident and found no evidence of any wrongdoing. "The further stated in their report that the Deputy Sheriff 'had zero signs of impairment and no signs of alcohol,’” Kirk said.

The Rhode Island Divisions of Sheriffs and the Rhode Island Department of Safety are investigating.

The Deputy Sheriff’s name has not been released. He was hired in September 2016 and is assigned to provide courthouse security. He is authorized, but not required, to carry a weapon while off-duty, according to Kirk.

"The safety of all our guest's and employees is paramount to the Comfort Inn Rockland.  We are thankful that no one was hurt during this unfortunate accident," Comfort Inn Rockland General Manager Brian McNally told Boston 25 News.

TOP STORIES: