(UPDATE) Shreveport Man Fatally Shoots Himself While Handling Firearm

***After a phone call from a family member of the victim and corroboration from SPD and the Caddo Coroner, it has been confirmed that the report was false.

The situation turned out to be a suspected homicide. The person who made the phone call to report the shooting was questioned by Police, and an investigation determined that the person who reported the incident was a suspect to the victim's murder.

Keelon B. Nelson (44) was taken in to custody as the suspect to the murder. Nelson was charged with 2nd Degree Murder and was arrested for that as well as 2 active warrants. Nelson is currently being held at the Shreveport City Jail without bond, and will be transported to Caddo Correctional Center to await trial.***

Early Tuesday (4/16/24) morning in the 500 block of Kember Lane, Shreveport Police were called for a report of a shooting.

Upon arrival, Shreveport Police discovered a man with a gunshot wound to his neck. Police declared the man to be dead on the scene. An investigation in to the matter revealed that the gunshot wound was self-inflicted.

Police say the man was "playing" with the firearm when he tripped, causing the gun to go off striking him in the neck.

Police are still investigating this incident and more will be added to this story as information is forthcoming. Police are not identifying the victim at this time pending notification to the family.

Police urge citizens to practice gun safety following the 12 Golden Rules:

-Always treat the gun as if it is loaded.

-Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.

-Always keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

-Always keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it.

-Never point the gun at anything you don't intend to shoot.

-Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

-Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the gun you are using.

-Always use proper ammunition.

-Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before loading and shooting.

-If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, hold your shooting position for several seconds; then with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, carefully unload the gun.

-Don't rely on the gun's safety to keep it from firing.

-Be aware of your surroundings when handling guns so you don't trip or lose your balance and accidentally point and/or fire the gun at anyone or anything.