Police Continue Gunshot Investigation

— University of Arkansas police investigators will turn over its findings this week to a prosecutor who will determine whether to criminally charge a student who accidentally shot himself in the hand in the KUAF studio.

University Lt. Matt Mills said Monday police have not finished the investigation’s report but would have it done by the end of the week at the latest.

Mills identified the student as Matthew Williamson.

Williamson, a work-study receptionist at the station, removed the gun from his book bag to show a friend when it discharged and injured his hand about 12:30 p.m. Friday, according to police.

Ambulance crews took him to Washington Regional Medical Center. He was not listed as a patient Monday morning, said Gina Maddox, hospital spokeswoman.

Williamson could not be reached for comment.

KUAF is a National Public Radio affiliate. The university owns the radio station property.

Arkansas law prohibits possession of handguns on campus or in any campus building. Those found in violation could face up to six years in the Department of Community Correction and a fine of up to $2,500.

University policy also prohibits the possession of firearms, Scott Flanigan, spokesman for the Division of Student Affairs, said Friday.

He declined to speak about Williamson on Monday. Any academic punishment given to students cannot be released to the public, he said.

Students who violate school policies are subject to sanctions that depend on the severity of the offense, Flanigan said Friday.

Drug and alcohol violations have guidelines for sanctions, he said. However, there is no specific punishment similar to Friday’s incident, he said.

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