A California police officer is recovering after being accidentally shot by a colleague during what authorities described as 'unsafe and out-of-policy horseplay involving loaded firearms.'
Dash-Cam Footage Released
The Pasadena Police Department released dash-cam footage on Wednesday showing the incident, which occurred on September 7, 2025, inside the department's parking structure. The nearly minute-long video captures two officers engaging in what police termed 'horseplay' with their service weapons.
In the footage, one officer is seen pointing his gun toward an approaching vehicle in the underground lot before re-holstering it. Moments later, another officer inside a cruiser draws his firearm, which suddenly discharges. The bullet strikes the windshield, and the officer falls to the ground in pain, appearing to have been struck in the shoulder. Other officers rush to assist him.
Police Chief's Statement
Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris confirmed that the shooting resulted from 'unsafe and out-of-policy horseplay involving loaded firearms.' He added that the wounded officer has recovered from his injuries. Harris stated that an internal administrative investigation has been completed and disciplinary action has been taken, though the specifics and whether the officers were placed on leave remain unclear.
'Horseplay and/or failure to adhere to safety rules and standards of professional conduct will not be tolerated,' Harris said.
Investigation Ongoing
The department noted that the criminal investigation is ongoing, with video recordings, witness statements, forensic evidence, and other relevant information still being evaluated. The identities of the officers involved have not been publicly released. The shooting remains under criminal review, in accordance with California law, which mandated the release of the footage.
