Local firearms store owner hopes tragedy sparks gun safety awareness

The owner of Hoover Tactical & Firearms is hoping the death of a Hoover man will spark gun owners to make sure their weapons are properly stored in a secure area. Police believe was accidentally shot by his 2-year-old son. 

Hoover Police received a 911 call on Tuesday, Aug. 18 from a resident of The Cliffs at Rocky Ridge Apartments. She said she returned home from work to find a 31-year-old family member lying on the floor, unresponsive. Police reported the victim suffered a gunshot wound to the head. A police press release says authorities believe the victim’s son may have accidentally shot his father.

“My condolences go out to the family. I don’t know the particulars of this incident, but I’m hoping this will encourage someone else to take steps to ensure this doesn’t happen to their family,” said Hoover Tactical owner Gene Smith, who is also a Hoover City Councilman.

Hoover Tactical & Firearms, located at 1561 Montgomery Highway, offers gun safety classes and shooting tips for individuals and groups, Smith said. You can sign up for classes online at www.hoovertacticalfirearms.com or by calling 822-3600.

Employees also offer free, simple tips on gun safety for visitors in-store in addition to the more extensive safety classes, Smith said.

“People who are not experienced will sometimes keep a gun in places where their children and other adolescents can get to it,” he said. “You need to keep it locked up. Even guests shouldn’t know where you keep your weapons. Always keep them secure.”

Smith said there are plenty of ways to properly secure your weapons, including buying gun safety locks and storage drawers that can only be accessed by a key or punching in a security code.

Hoover police said the shooting is still under investigation, though as of late Tuesday Aug. 18 there does not to appear to be an intruder or any other person involved.