EPD: Suspect accidentally shot himself during attempted burglary

EVANSVILLE, IN (WFIE) - Police say an attempted burglary suspect is in the hospital after he accidentally shot himself.

Evansville police say officers responded to an attempted burglary at a home in the 2700 block of Oakley around 7:15 Tuesday evening.

The victim told police that someone knocked on his door and when he opened it, a man pointed a handgun at him. The victim tried to shut the door, but couldn't.

Police say the victim fought with suspect and they eventually ended up on the ground in the front yard.

During the struggle the victim says the suspect's gun went off. He was then able to break free and run towards the back yard. The victim says the suspect tried to follow him, but he was able to turn and punch the suspect in the face several times.

Police say at that point the suspect had had enough and fled the area in a car.

The victim told officers that there were a total of three people involved in the attempted burglary and they all left in the car with the armed suspect.

EPD says area hospitals were notified that there might be a gunshot victim coming in for treatment. Shortly after that, police say a 16-year-old came into one of the hospitals with a gunshot wound to his wrist.

Investigators talked to him and another 16-year-old who had arrived at the hospital with him.

Police say they both told investigators that the shooting happened during a "drive-by", but investigators were able to determine they were lying and further questioning placed them at the attempted burglary.

EPD says the injured suspect remains hospitalized with a non-life-threatening injury. He will be charged when he is released. The second suspect was arrested and placed at The Youth Care Center.

Police say they both will face charges of Criminal Recklessness While Armed With a Deadly Weapon, Burglary While Armed With a Deadly Weapon, and Residential Entry.