Man accidentally shoots himself at hospital cafe

[February 11, 2009]  LAFAYETTE, Colo. (AP) -- A man who reached into his pocket to pay for lunch at a hospital cafeteria in Lafayette accidentally shot himself with the gun in his pocket. Police and officials at Exempla Good Samaritan Medical Center said it was an unfortunate accident.

Officials said 59-year-old Steve Tapp of Thornton was treated at the hospital and released. No one else was hurt.

Officials said Tapp, who was visiting family at the hospital, shot himself in the right thigh Tuesday. Security guards responded and took the gun.

Tapp faces possible misdemeanor charges of unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon, prohibited use of a weapon and reckless endangerment.

The hospital forbids guns, although no sign was posted Tuesday stating the policy.

[Associated Press]

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