ORLANDO, FL — A firearm incident on a Lynx bus in East Orlando early Monday morning has left one woman hospitalized after what authorities described as an accidental discharge (but is technically a negligent discharge.) Deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident around 7:10 a.m. at the intersection of Alafaya Trail and East Colonial Drive.

The Lynx bus, a form of public transportation serving Central Florida, was the site of the incident. According to News Channel 8, the woman, identified only as being in her 50s, suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Authorities confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the public, but further details about how the firearm discharged were not immediately released.

Firearm Safety: Avoiding Accidental Discharges

While the specifics of this incident are unclear, it raises critical questions about how the firearm was being carried and handled at the time. Negligent discharges can often be attributed to improper storage, inadequate holsters, or unnecessary handling of the firearm.

One possibility in this case is that the firearm may have been carried in a purse without a proper holster. A good holster ensures the trigger is completely covered, preventing negligent actuation. If the firearm was stored in a bag alongside other items, such as keys or makeup, it’s possible that an object could have snagged the trigger, causing it to fire.

For those who carry firearms in a purse or bag, it’s essential to store the firearm in its own compartment and in a holster specifically designed for secure carry. A good holster should:

1. Cover the entire trigger guard.
2. Retain the firearm securely.
3. Provide reliable access.

This principle applies to all forms of concealed carry, whether on your person or in a bag. Furthermore, administrative handling—adjusting, removing, or otherwise touching the firearm when it is not necessary—should be minimized. The only time a firearm should be handled while in public is if you are in a self-defense situation.

Incidents like this underscore the importance of proper firearm safety practices to ensure the safety of both the carrier and those around them.

For more information on choosing a safe and effective holster, check out our guide here: What Makes a Good Holster a Good Holster?

By adhering to responsible carrying practices, accidental discharges can be significantly reduced, keeping everyone safer.