Authorities deem shooting death accidental

A Wilson County man died Saturday evening after an accidental shooting, according to sheriff's investigators.

Dean Banks, 52, died from a single gunshot wound at his home. Wilson County Sheriff Robert Bryan said investigators continue to look into the incident.

"Saturday night, we got a call from a 15 year old who said he had accidently shot his father while cleaning his rifle," Bryan said.

Bryan said the shooting appeared to be an accident based on the circumstances.

"The father was in a separate room, and the bullet went through the wall and furniture before it struck the victim," he said.

Bryan said his department would complete interviews in the "next few days" but the preliminary investigation points toward an accidental incident.

"We'll finish up our investigation and turn everything over to the district attorney," he said, adding he feels bad for the entire family.

"It's a bad situation," Bryan said. "That kid will have to live with this his entire life. He's a good kid."

The sheriff also used the situation to remind everyone about the potential danger of firearms.

"Any gun should be considered loaded and precautions taken," he said.