Hartford Firefighter on Leave After Accidentally Shooting Friend: Officials

Authorities are investigating after a Hartford firefighter accidentally shot a friend who was "mishandling a gun," sources within the Hartford Police Department told NBC Connecticut.

A Hartford firefighter accused of accidentally shooting his friend has been placed on administrative leave while authorities investigate, according to the fire department.

Hartford police said 25-year-old Justin Wood, of East Hartford, accidentally shot 28-year-old Jose Medina, of Hartford, in the jaw and neck at an apartment on Webster Street shortly after midnight Sunday.

Wood has been placed on administrative leave for the duration of the police investigation, according to Hartford Fire Department spokesperson Capt. Helene Lynch. Wood has been a member of Engine Company 5 on Sigourney Street since Dec. 2, 2012.

Police said Wood was showing Medina a handgun when the weapon accidentally discharged. The weapon is legal and Wood is licensed to carry it. Wood is cooperating with investigators.

Medina was alert at the scene and was taken to Hartford Hospital in critical condition. Police said the bullet struck his left cheek, broke his jaw and became lodged in the back of his neck. He is receiving treatment in the hospital's intensive care unit.

It's the second accidental shooting in Hartford in as many days. Police said "all public safety command staff have been notified" of the incident and no charges have been filed.

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