### Senate Candidate's Gun Range Misfire Injures Reporter, Triggers Social Media Outcry

A day at the gun range took an unexpected turn when a Democratic Senate candidate's shooting exercise resulted in a local reporter being struck by a bullet fragment. Lucas Kunce, a Marine Corps veteran, was firing an AR-15 at a gun range on Tuesday when a fragment ricocheted and hit KSHB-TV's Ryan Gamboa in the arm.

Kunce documented the incident on social media, sharing that he had spent the day with Republican Adam Kinzinger and some union workers while at the range. “We got to hang out with some union workers while exercising our freedom. Always have your first aid kit handy. Shrapnel can always fly when you hit a target like today, and you've got to be ready to go. We had four first aid kits, so we were able to take care of the situation, and I'm glad Ryan is okay and was able to continue reporting,” Kunce posted on X.

According to the Kansas City Star, Kunce quickly attended to Gamboa’s wound, wrapping it with gauze. Despite the injury, Gamboa was able to continue his reporting duties.

The incident rapidly gained attention on social media, particularly among conservatives. Senator Josh Hawley took a jab at Kunce's campaign with a pun-filled remark: “I know the Kunce campaign needed a shot in the arm, but this is taking it a little far...” Abigail Jackson, Hawley Communications Director, also chimed in, saying, “Are these guys trying to make Tim Walz look competent with a gun?”

Conservative commentators were quick to criticize the incident. Sean Davis, CEO and co-founder of The Federalist, expressed his shock, labeling the incident as "mind-blowing insanity" from a party that seeks to regulate firearms. Digital strategist Greg Price emphasized the danger of shooting steel targets at close range, a sentiment echoed by Washington Free Beacon reporter Chuck Ross.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Kunce emphasized the importance of safety and defended the range setup. “The range was set up and run by a certified NRA training counselor. But any time you are handling weapons, you need to be prepared. We acted quickly and I'm glad the reporter was okay and able to keep reporting.”

Kunce responded to criticisms by referencing a video of Hawley running through the Capitol on January 6th, remarking, "The last time Josh Hawley saw a gun."

The incident has sparked a heated debate about firearm safety and political responsibility, highlighting the charged atmosphere surrounding gun control discussions in the United States.