By: Richard L. Smith
A 66-year-old Carteret man was hospitalized Saturday after accidentally shooting himself at a gun range in Union Township.
According to information released by Union Township Police, officers responded to RTSP Shooting Range at 2438 Route 22 on October 10 following a report of a medical emergency.
Upon arrival, officers learned that Silvano Cruz, 66, of Carteret, had suffered a gunshot wound to his thigh.
A preliminary investigation determined that the incident occurred when a spent shell casing ejected from a handgun and fell inside Cruz's shirt, leading to an accidental discharge.
Union firefighters and emergency medical personnel responded to provide assistance before Cruz was transported to University Hospital in Newark for further evaluation and treatment.
Police said his injuries were not considered life-threatening.