AFTE Store - Accidental Discharge of a FN Browning Hi-Power Pistol

An accidental discharge occurred with a FN Browning Hi-Power pistol as it was simply being loaded without touching the trigger. During early reconstruction of the crime scene another and “the last” accidental discharge occurred in the fiream laboratory’s testing range. Examination revealed a metal shaving, congealed grease and powder particles above the rear portion of the sear lever as the probable cause, even though the firearm subsequently passed inspection at the main police armory before being cleaned. What is unique about this incident is that the half cock safety of the FN pistol was bypassed due to the slight depression of the sear by premature contact of the sear lever. This report describes the chronological examinations performed.