A Texas county commissioner is set to begin probation this week after a tragic incident involving his grandson at a wedding. Michael Gardner, 63, was sentenced to one year of probation for accidentally shooting his 12-year-old grandson last year while officiating a wedding in Nebraska.
The incident took place near Denton, Nebraska, when Gardner aimed a revolver loaded with a blank round into the air to mark the ceremony’s start. While he was cocking the gun, it unexpectedly discharged, injuring his now-13-year-old grandson.
Gardner had crafted the blank round himself, using an empty shell, black gunpowder, and glue. According to the Lincoln Journal Star, the boy sustained a significant injury, measuring about eight centimeters long and four centimeters wide, which resulted in some muscle and tissue damage.
“It’s something I’ll carry with me for life,” Gardner reflected. “Nobody will be harder on me than myself regardless of the consequences.” He was recently reelected as county commissioner in Ector County, Texas.
Initially charged with felony assault, Gardner reached a plea deal in July and faced a lesser misdemeanor charge after pleading no contest. Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Eric Miller voiced his concern over the reckless behavior of bringing a firearm to a wedding, despite the unique circumstances of the event.
Gardner’s attorney, Matt Kosmicki, stated that his client acknowledges his responsibility and reflects on the incident daily. “It was just a horrible accident,” Gardner added, expressing gratitude for the support from the community he serves.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.