COLLIER COUNTY, FL — One Injured in Apparent Accidental Shooting at Alamo Gun Range in North Collier
An afternoon at a popular shooting range in Collier County took a frightening turn on Thursday when an individual was injured in what authorities are describing as a likely accidental discharge of a firearm. The incident occurred around 12:31 p.m. at the Alamo Gun Range, located just off Vanderbilt Beach Road in North Collier, prompting a swift emergency response and raising questions about safety protocols at the facility.
Immediate Emergency Response
North Collier Fire Rescue and Collier County EMS were dispatched to the scene within minutes of the 911 call reporting the incident. Upon arrival, they discovered one person suffering from a gunshot wound, believed to have been caused by an unintentional discharge of a firearm inside the indoor shooting range.
The injured individual—whose identity has not yet been released—was stabilized on-site and then transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Officials have not yet disclosed the precise nature of the injury or the current condition of the individual, though early indications suggest the wound was non-life-threatening.
Initial Investigation and Eyewitness Accounts
Law enforcement officers from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office were also on the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Early findings point toward an accidental discharge during a session at the range, though it remains unclear whether the firearm malfunctioned, was mishandled, or if range protocols were not followed.
Several patrons who were at the Alamo at the time of the incident described hearing a loud, unexpected shot followed by immediate commotion and a call for help. One eyewitness, who asked not to be named, said, “Everyone just froze. Then we saw staff running and someone calling 911. They cleared the lanes quickly.”
Authorities have emphasized that no foul play is currently suspected, and the working theory is that the discharge was unintentional. However, a full forensic examination of the firearm and a review of video surveillance footage from inside the range are underway.
About the Alamo Gun Range
The Alamo Gun Range is one of the most well-known firearm training and recreational shooting facilities in Southwest Florida. Known for its high-tech indoor lanes and retail space, the facility draws both seasoned gun owners and newcomers seeking firearms training. The range has previously promoted its commitment to safety and offers mandatory safety briefings for all new users.
In a statement issued late Thursday afternoon, a representative for the Alamo expressed concern for the injured patron and confirmed that the range was temporarily closed to allow investigators to conduct a thorough assessment of the scene. “Safety is our number one priority, and we are cooperating fully with local authorities to determine how this incident occurred,” the statement read.
Safety Concerns and Public Reaction
While the Alamo has a generally positive reputation among gun owners in the region, Thursday’s incident has reignited concerns over range safety protocols, particularly as firearm ownership has surged in recent years. Advocates for gun safety stress that even under supervised conditions, accidents can and do occur—and highlight the importance of strict adherence to range rules, firearm maintenance, and proper training.
Local residents expressed a mix of concern and support in the aftermath of the incident. “I bring my teenage son here to learn gun safety. It’s a good facility, but it just shows that even the best places can have accidents,” said one Naples resident, who visits the Alamo regularly. “It’s a reminder to all of us that we’re dealing with dangerous tools that demand total respect.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to examine the precise sequence of events that led to the shooting. Investigators are expected to interview witnesses, review internal surveillance footage, and conduct a full inspection of the firearm involved. At this time, no charges have been filed, and officials have not confirmed whether the injured party was an employee, a range instructor, or a visitor.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office has stated that more information will be released as the investigation develops. Meanwhile, the Alamo Gun Range remains closed until further notice, with management promising to review and, if necessary, revise its internal procedures to prevent future incidents.
Final Thoughts
While the individual injured in Thursday’s incident is expected to recover, the accidental shooting serves as a sobering reminder of the ever-present need for vigilance, training, and respect in any environment involving firearms. As officials continue to investigate, the Collier County community waits for answers—and for assurances that safety remains a top priority at its most frequented gun range.