Are security guards allowed to carry shot guns? Can a shot gun go off accidently?

A QC man, riding ATVs with his wife and a friend, died Saturday night after he allegedly was shot by a security guard.

Daniel Ashcroft, described as being about 24, was dead from a 16-gauge shotgun wound to the chest when authorities arrived. The shooting occurred about 7:15 p.m. at the Walker Butte Mine off Hunt Highway.
The security guard - William Lee, 72, of Mesa - reportedly told police the shooting was accidental. He was arrested on a charge of manslaughter, although the charge may be upgraded, Florence police Detective Walt Hunter said.
Hunter said Ashcroft, his wife Tamara and a female friend were riding ATVs when Ashcroft's vehicle stalled. The two women had ridden ahead and did not hear the shot. One of the women happened to circle back in time to see Ashcroft grab his chest and fall to the ground. Tamara and a brother gave Daniel CPR before emergency responders arrived.
The mine is private property but the women said the group never saw a no-trespassing sign. They apparently did not cross a fence to reach the area.
"There are several ways to get in," Hunter said.
The guard reportedly dropped the shotgun and opened the gates so emergency responders could enter the property.

Last edited on Thu May 1st, 2008 04:57 am by QCQC