Police said Monday that although the investigation is still under way in a shooting that injured an airman early Saturday morning in southeast Minot, the incident appears to be an accidental shooting.
Det. Matt McLeod of the Minot Police Department said Monday that only limited information is being released at this point in the shooting of 23-year-old Jonathan Threatt that occurred at Threatt's residence in the 100 block of 41st Avenue Southeast around 1:40 a.m.
Police said Sunday night that five airmen live in the apartment, and one of the other residents was alone with Threatt when the gunshot was heard by a third person.
Threatt was first treated at the scene for a gunshot wound to the head, then transported to Trinity Hospital before being flown to a Minnesota medical facility.
"It's not being looked at as a criminal act," McLeod said. "We're leaning more towards an accidental shooting, but there's still a little bit more that needs to be done."
Several people at the scene were interviewed by authorities, including Air Force Office of Special Investigations personnel.
Until more is known, McLeod said police prefer limited details to be released.
Threatt's medical condition was not provided.
"We're not releasing his condition at this time," McLeod said. "He's been transferred to Minneapolis."
Threatt is the latest of several airmen to be injured in Minot in accidental shooting incidents within the past year.
Steven Crawford, 19, was killed when a gun being handled by fellow airman Nicholas Rouse discharged on Dec. 20, 2010. Rouse pleaded guilty to a charge of negligent homicide and was sentenced to three years probation.
Another airman was shot in the legs in a training exercise accident on the outdoor range at the Minot Rifle and Pistol Club in October 2010.