BUCKEYE, AZ — Buckeye police are investigating a negligent discharge that occurred inside a Walmart McDonald’s near Watson and Yuma Road on Wednesday.
According to the Buckeye Police Department, a man in his 70s was seated inside the McDonald’s restaurant located within the Walmart store when he discharged a handgun. Preliminary information indicates the incident was unintentional, and no one was injured.
Officers responded quickly to the scene and detained the man. At this time, no charges have been announced, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge, including whether the man was legally carrying the firearm.
Negligent discharges are entirely preventable and typically result from a failure to observe basic firearm safety principles. One of the most common causes is inadequate trigger protection — often due to poorly designed or worn-out holsters. A proper holster should fully cover the trigger guard and retain the firearm securely during all normal movements.
As discussed in this article on how to avoid a negligent discharge while carrying concealed, certain carry methods — like off-body carry or Mexican carry — can significantly increase the risk of a negligent discharge due to lack of secure trigger protection. Maintaining good habits such as consistent trigger discipline, regular gear inspection, and thoughtful holster selection are essential parts of responsible concealed carry.
Those who carry daily should prioritize ongoing training and situational awareness. It’s not enough to simply possess a firearm; carriers must also know how to manage it safely in everyday situations. Carrying concealed comes with the responsibility to ensure your firearm is always handled and secured in a way that does not endanger others.
