Probe Into Firearm Discharge

An investigation into the discharge of a firearm at Glenrothes Police Station has concluded.

A wall was damaged but no one was injured when the shotgun went off on 28th May 2015.

Commissioner Kate Frame has concluded the most likely cause of the incident was that the officer’s thumb entered the trigger area while he was attempting to apply the safety catch.

According to national guidance, the officer should have applied the catch on the firearm before moving from standing to lying in a chest down position.
 
The Commissioner also found that firearms instructors were initially unaware the officer had accidently discharged the weapon because they were temporarily distracted while giving instructions to another officer.
 
The incident was referred to the PIRC for independent investigation.
 
Kate Frame, commented: “The accidental firing of this weapon was negligent and the incident would not have happened if the officer had followed National Police Firearms Training Guidance.
 
“Since the event, Police Scotland has taken steps to ensure that all firearms instructors are reminded of their core safety responsibilities.”