A mother shopping with her children was struck by bullet fragments after a gun went off inside a Valdosta store.
VALDOSTA, GA – A 34-year-old mother shopping with her children inside a Walmart was injured Monday after a firearm carried by another shopper discharged into the floor, sending debris into her ankles, according to police. The incident unfolded as customers moved through the store, turning a routine trip into an emergency response scene.
Officers say 21-year-old John Eady was inside the store on June 9 when the gun he had in his pocket fired as he reached for his cellphone. The bullet struck the ground, and fragments from both the projectile and the tile flooring hit the woman, causing injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Incident details and police findings
“[Eady] was carrying a firearm in the front pocket of his basketball-style shorts,” the Valdosta Police Department said in a statement. “Eady did not have the gun in any type of holster, and his cellphone was in the same pocket.”
Police said the discharge occurred as Eady reached into his pocket. “Preliminary information indicates that one shopper sustained a gunshot wound to her lower leg,” officials said, noting that the injuries were caused by shrapnel and debris rather than a direct gunshot.
Investigators determined the manner in which the firearm was carried contributed to the incident. “Officers determined that Eady was carrying the firearm in a manner that was a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would have exercised in a similar situation,” the department stated.
Arrest and safety warning
Authorities obtained a warrant for Eady’s arrest the following day. He later turned himself in and was charged with one misdemeanor count of reckless conduct. He was booked into the Lowndes County Jail.
Police emphasized the potential for more serious harm given the circumstances. “We are very thankful that no one received more severe injuries, as the victim was shopping with her small children,” said Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan. “This serves as a reminder that carrying a firearm is a significant responsibility. Firearms should be carried in a secure holster or in another secure manner to prevent unintentional contact with the trigger, reducing the risk of an unintended discharge.”
The injured woman received treatment and is expected to recover.
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