Accidental shootings in Texas remain a pressing concern, reflecting the complex interplay of firearm accessibility and safety education.

Despite gun laws, incidents arise due to a combination of factors, including inadequate storage practices, insufficient training, and occasional lapses in responsible gun ownership.

The Smith County Sheriff's Office was investigating a recent shooting and found out that it was an accident between the parties involved. Let this story serve as a reminder to practice gun safety at all times.

On December 3, 2023, at approximately 7:15 pm, the Smith County Emergency Operations Center received a 911 call advising that a male subject had been shot in the hand.

The caller advised that they were on the side of the road on Hwy 155 South in Noonday. Deputies quickly arrived in the area and were able to locate the victim and caller near the hardware store in the 19600 block of Hwy 155 South in Noonday.

Deputies observed that the victim had a severe gunshot wound to his left hand and upper thigh at which time they were able to apply a tourniquet to slow the bleeding. UT Health EMS arrived shortly thereafter and continued first aid, ultimately transporting the victim to UT Health Tyler.

Smith County Investigators and the Crime Scene Unit were notified for further investigation.

One individual of interest was detained by deputies. During the course of the investigation, Smith County Investigators were able to determine that this was an accidental shooting.

The caller, Ronald Husted – 25 of Tyler and the victim, Stephen Tillery – 25 of Tyler, were sitting in a vehicle at the boat ramp on CR 189. They were handling a pistol when the firearm discharged. The projectile went through Tillery’s left hand and upper thigh. He underwent surgery at UT Health and is currently in stable condition.

Both Husted and Tillery were cooperative during the initial part of this investigation. At this time, no charges have been filed against either individual.