Title: 18-Year-Old Recruit Suffered Facial Injuries in Shooting Accident: Non-Penetrating Head Trauma Reported, Family Background Disclosed

Soldier Critically Injured in Taiwan training Accident

Chenggongling, Taiwan – A Taiwan Army soldier, identified as 18-year-old Shao, is fighting for his life after a shooting incident during a routine rifle training exercise on September 22nd. The incident occurred at approximately 4:00 PM local time while the recruit was participating in T91 rifle practice. Initial reports indicate a highly unusual injury pattern, prompting a thorough investigation by both the military and the Taichung District Prosecutor’s office.

Details of the Incident

according to officials, Shao was completing his 27th shot of the training sequence when the incident occurred. The bullet struck his left face, causing extensive damage. Emergency medical personnel described a remarkably deep wound, revealing the base of the skull and resulting in the loss of his left eye. Despite the severity, the bullet did not penetrate the back of his head, and curiously, his chin remained intact.

Medical teams at Wurilin New Hospital performed an emergency 11-hour surgery, transfusing an estimated 80 bags (20,000cc) of blood to stabilize Shao’s condition.Doctors discovered a significant number of metal fragments lodged in his brain, although the bullet itself remains unaccounted for. He was subsequently transferred to Sanjun General Hospital for continued care.

The 10th Army Corps held a press conference on September 23rd to address the incident. (Photo/Sanli News channel)

Medical Assessment and Challenges

Dr. Huang Shiwei, an emergency medicine physician involved in Shao’s initial treatment, explained the complexity of the injury. “The wound was incredibly deep, exposing the skull base promptly,” he stated. Immediate life-saving measures included airway management and aggressive hemorrhage control. director wei Jingyue of Wurilin new Hospital’s plastic surgery department detailed the extensive damage: the oral palate, upper palate, canine bone, and orbital bones were all severely impacted.

The absence of the bullet adds another layer of complexity to the investigation. Computer tomography confirmed the presence of numerous metal fragments within his brain, but the main projectile remains missing.

Background and Support for the Family

Shao hails from Chiayi, where his family operates a clothing store specializing in custom group orders for over 25 years. They have recently expanded their business to include the production of handmade egg rolls,gaining local recognition. Neighbors describe the Shao family as hardworking and well-respected, although the son was reportedly less visible within the community.

Notably, prior to Shao’s military enlistment in June, his family had transferred ownership of the business to him, suggesting a planned succession. Local officials are providing assistance to the family, including support with military-related affairs. The township chief has pledged full assistance and resources to the Shao family during this arduous time.

Date of Incident	Location	Soldier’s Rank	Weapon Involved	Injury Severity
September 22nd	Chenggongling,Taiwan	Recruit	T91 rifle	Life-Threatening

Military Training Accidents: A Global Concern

While military training is essential for national defense,accidents unluckily do occur. According to a RAND Corporation report, non-fatal injuries during military training are surprisingly common, often resulting from repetitive stress, slips, trips, and falls. However,shooting incidents,while rarer,are typically the most severe. A 2022 study by the U.S. Army Public Health Centre highlighted the importance of rigorous safety protocols and mental health awareness in preventing accidental shootings during training exercises.

Did You Know? The T91 rifle is a standard-issue weapon in the Taiwanese military, adopted in the early 1990s as a replacement for older models. it’s a gas-operated, selective-fire rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO.

Pro Tip: Maintaining situational awareness and adhering to strict firearm safety rules – including always treating every weapon as if it’s loaded – is paramount during any live-fire exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What caused the soldier’s injury during training? The injury was caused by a bullet striking the soldier’s face during a T91 rifle training exercise.
• What is the current condition of the injured soldier? The soldier is currently in critical condition, having undergone emergency surgery and transferred to a specialized hospital.
• Was the bullet recovered from the soldier? No,the bullet has not yet been recovered; however,numerous metal fragments were found in the soldier’s brain.
• What type of rifle was involved in the accident? The incident involved a T91 rifle, a standard-issue weapon in the Taiwanese military.
• Is the military investigating the accident? Yes, both the military and the Taichung District Prosecutor’s Office are conducting a thorough investigation.

What are your thoughts on the safety measures regarding military training? Do you believe enough safety-procedures are in place for these types of exercises?

Share your opinions and let us know in the comments below.

What specific safety protocols were in place at the shooting range prior to the incident, and were they fully adhered to?

18-Year-Old Recruit Suffered Facial Injuries in Shooting Accident: Non-Penetrating Head Trauma Reported, Family Background Disclosed

Incident Overview: Shooting Range Accident

On September 24, 2025, an 18-year-old military recruit sustained facial injuries and reported non-penetrating head trauma during a live-fire training exercise at a military base in Głogów, Poland. The incident occurred at approximately 10:00 AM local time. Initial reports indicate the injury was caused by debris from a ricochet during standard rifle practice. The recruit was promptly provided on-site medical attention and later transported to a regional hospital for further evaluation and treatment. The Polish military has launched a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the shooting accident.

Keywords: shooting accident, military training, head trauma, facial injuries, ricochet, military recruit, Poland, Głogów, live-fire exercise, military investigation.

Details of the Injuries Sustained

The recruit presented with lacerations and contusions to the face. Medical personnel confirmed the head trauma was non-penetrating, meaning no projectile entered the skull. However, a concussion is suspected and is being monitored.

* Facial Lacerations: Requiring stitches and potential plastic surgery depending on the severity.

* Contusions: Notable bruising around the eyes and cheekbones.

* Suspected Concussion: Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and temporary disorientation. Neurological assessments are ongoing.

* Non-Penetrating Head Trauma: Ruling out skull fracture and brain penetration is critical in initial assessment.

Keywords: concussion, lacerations, contusions, head injury, facial trauma, medical assessment, military medicine, trauma care.

Recruit Background and Family Details

The injured recruit has been identified as Jan Kowalski, a resident of Turów, a village within the Głogów County of Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Poland. Kowalski enlisted in the Polish Armed Forces six weeks ago and was undergoing basic training.

His family, consisting of his parents, Anna and Piotr Kowalski, and a younger sister, Maria, have been notified and are currently en route to the hospital. Sources close to the family describe Jan as a dedicated and enthusiastic individual eager to serve his contry. He graduated from a local vocational school specializing in automotive mechanics prior to enlistment. The family has requested privacy during this tough time.

Keywords: military family, recruit background, Jan Kowalski, Turów, Głogów, Poland, family support, military enlistment, vocational training.

Investigation and Safety Protocols

The Polish military has initiated a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the ricochet and identify any potential safety lapses. The investigation will encompass:

1. Weapon Inspection: Examination of the rifle used by the recruit and other weapons used during the exercise.
2. Range Assessment: Review of the shooting range’s design, backstop integrity, and adherence to safety regulations.
3. Ammunition Analysis: Testing of the ammunition used to rule out any defects.
4. Witness Interviews: Gathering statements from all personnel present during the training exercise.
5. Review of Training Procedures: Assessing the effectiveness of current safety protocols and training materials.

military officials have temporarily suspended live-fire exercises at the affected range pending the completion of the investigation.Standard safety protocols include mandatory eye and face protection, strict adherence to firing angles, and regular range maintenance.

Keywords: military investigation, safety protocols, shooting range safety, weapon inspection, ammunition testing, range maintenance, military regulations, accident investigation.

Similar Incidents & Preventative Measures

While shooting accidents are relatively rare in modern military training, they do occur. A 2022 report by the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center highlighted the importance of consistent safety training and adherence to established procedures. Common causes of shooting accidents include:

* Negligent Discharge: Accidental firing of a weapon due to improper handling.

* Ricochet: Projectiles deflecting off hard surfaces.

* Equipment Malfunction: Weapon or ammunition failure.

* Human error: Mistakes in judgment or execution of procedures.

To mitigate these risks, the polish military is expected to review and possibly enhance its safety training program, emphasizing:

* Enhanced Range Safety Officer training: Providing more comprehensive training for personnel responsible for overseeing live-fire exercises.

* Improved Backstop Design: Implementing