Madison Heights Man Charged After Accidental Shooting Outside Great Lakes Crossing

Ethan Carter Wright, a 26-year-old Madison Heights man with a concealed pistol license, has been charged with careless discharge of a firearm causing injury after accidentally shooting a co-worker in the hip outside Great Lakes Crossing Mall. The incident occurred when Wright attempted to move his handgun from the cupholder to the backseat while giving the victim a ride home from work on July 28. Prosecutors classified the charge as a high court misdemeanor, punishable by up to two years in prison or a $2,000 fine. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald emphasized that firearm ownership carries basic responsibilities and highlighted the serious consequences of careless handgun handling. The case adds to a series of recent firearm incidents in the Detroit area involving accidental shootings and violations of safe storage laws. Wright's actions underscore ongoing concerns about firearm safety and handling in the community.