Santa Cruz Security Official Hospitalized After Accidental Shooting During Training Exercise

A senior official from the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council’s Security and Emergency department is currently on medical leave after accidentally shooting themselves in the thigh during a police shooting competition. The incident occurred last Saturday at the La Gallardina facility in La Laguna, requiring the official to be transported to the hospital for treatment.

The accident has raised questions about safety protocols in "practical shooting," a discipline where participants fire at targets while navigating an obstacle course. Because this training involves movement and live ammunition, it is common among military and security personnel and requires strict adherence to weapon handling rules.

While initial reports suggested the official was a member of the Local Police, city officials have clarified that the individual holds a civilian administrative role as Head of Service for Citizen Security. Their responsibilities include managing supplies, public procurement, fleet maintenance, and the purchase of specialized equipment.

The incident, which involved an accidental discharge into the ground, has prompted a review of safety measures for extracurricular activities involving security management staff. The City Council’s current priority is the official’s recovery as they remain away from their administrative duties.