Wife shot when spouse's gun gets loose

A wife on a walk with her husband Thursday wound up with a gunshot wound to her leg when his gun dropped out of his pants pocket, hit the sidewalk and discharged.

The Darke County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate whether any charges will be filed against James Bayless, who has a carry-conceal permit, the sheriff's office said Thursday night.

Constance Bayless, 54, was listed in stable condition at Wayne Healthcare, where she underwent surgery.

The shooting occurred at about 12:16 p.m. in the 100 block of Harrison Street, according to the sheriff's office.

James Bayless adjusted his pants as they walked and the firearm dropped out of his pants. The sheriff's office offered no information about the weapon or its caliber.

Arcanum Rescue and sheriff's deputies were called to the scene to attend to Mrs. Bayless.

About the Author