Florida Man Fatally Shoots Himself While Attempting to Place Firearm in Waistband

KISSIMMEE, FL — A man lost his life in a negligent shooting over the weekend while attempting to put a firearm in his waistband, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to a residence on Caribbean View Terrace near Kissimmee after reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found 33-year-old Harvey Lee Brady on the kitchen floor, suffering from a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen. Despite lifesaving efforts at the scene, Brady was transported to Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The investigation revealed that Brady had retrieved a firearm from the kitchen counter and was attempting to place it into the waistband of his shorts when he had a negligent discharge. The sheriff’s office confirmed the shooting was accidental, and an autopsy is pending with the Lake County Medical Examiner.

Safety Reminder: The Role of Holsters in Responsible Concealed Carry

While details from the police report do not specify whether Brady was using a holster, this tragic incident underscores the critical importance of using a proper holster when carrying a firearm. Holsters provide secure retention and, most importantly, ensure the trigger is completely covered to prevent negligent discharges.

For concealed carriers, selecting a high-quality holster is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. A good holster should provide adequate retention, shield the trigger guard, and allow safe reholstering. For more tips on choosing the right holster, refer to this article: “What Makes a Concealed Carry Holster Good?.”

Safe firearm storage practices are equally important. Personally, I keep my carry gun in a holster at all times, even when I’m at home. If I’m not carrying it, the holstered firearm goes into a quick-access safe. For me, this ensures the trigger is always protected, and the firearm is secure. Loose firearms, even in familiar surroundings like your home, can pose unnecessary risks. While everyone’s system might look different, it’s important to find a method that prioritizes safety and responsibility, both for yourself and those around you.

This incident serves as a somber reminder to handle firearms responsibly and prioritize safety at all times.