VANCOUVER, Wash. – A mother says her 13‑year‑old daughter was injured by a bullet fragment after a man accidentally dropped a loaded gun that fired inside the Costco at 84th and Andresen on Wednesday afternoon.

Racheal Jackson and her family had gone to the store to purchase new glasses for her daughter, Olive. While Olive was trying on frames, a man standing about six feet away dropped his firearm, causing a round to discharge.

“We heard a loud bang and turned around and a man who was standing about six feet to the left of us was standing next to a smoking gun that was on the floor,” Jackson said.

According to Jackson, metal fragments from the bullet struck the optical desk and one fragment hit Olive, leaving a cut on her back. She added that the man admitted the gun had no safety mechanism.

“Because of these choices he made, my daughter was put in danger and my daughter was injured,” Jackson said.

Jackson, a Portland‑based muralist featured on the HBO Max series “Artfully Designed,” posted about the incident on social media, expressing anger that “it is legal for people to just walk around with loaded firearms to Costco” and urging elected officials to take action to protect shoppers.

Olive was examined by a doctor and, while physically fine, remains shaken by the experience.

Vancouver police reported that the gun owner was cited for carrying a concealed firearm and was released at the scene. Costco has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Community response

The incident has sparked discussion among local parents and community members about the presence of loaded firearms in public retail spaces. Many are calling for stricter enforcement of existing concealed‑carry laws and for retailers to consider additional safety protocols.

Legal context

Washington state law permits concealed carry for qualified individuals, but requires that firearms be safely stored when not in use. Police cited the man for violating the concealed‑carry statute, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety requirements.

What’s next?

Local law‑enforcement officials say they will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and will monitor compliance with state firearm regulations. Community leaders are urging the city council to review public‑safety measures for large retail venues.

Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.