Expert reminds Missourians about gun safety in wake of accidental shooting at Columbia Mall

A Columbia man was hospitalized Friday with life-threatening injuries after an apparent accidental shooting while sitting in a vehicle.

Columbia police said the shooting took place in the parking lot of the Columbia Mall. Although the investigation is still ongoing, in order to prevent similar situations, investigators advise gun owners to be properly trained.

Dale Roberts, a certified instructor with the Department of Public Safety, said having your finger where it should be is important and the second problem is that not all holsters are made with safety features.

Investigators said two men were in the vehicle, and one of the males was trying to holster the gun when it went off.

In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that on average, more than one person is killed a day due to accidental discharge of firearms in the U.S.

Tim Oliver, with Learn To Carry, said training is just as important as knowing where the firearm is being pointed.