Du Quoin Man Killed in Weekend Accidental Shooting

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ Labor Day weekend. What was suppose to be the last celebration of summer instead was heartbreaking for the family of Michael D. Hargis, 31, of Du Quoin who was accidentally shot and killed while cleaning a handgun at his South Jefferson Street home Friday night.

The Du Quoin Police Department and investigators at the Illinois State Police District 13 command in Du Quoin were called to the Hargis home on South Jefferson at 10:42 p.m. Friday night following the accidental shooting.

Du Quoin Chief of Police Michael Ward said Hargis was apparently killed when a handgun he had been handling went off. The small caliber bullet struck him in the head.

He died instantly, according to Ward.

"It appears that the handgun was being moved from one location to another," said Ward.

"It was an accidental discharge," he said. "He apparently grabbed the gun the wrong way."

Hargis was in his bedroom when the accident happened.

Perry County Coroner Paul Searby said the death was the result of an accidental shooting, as well.

A coroner's inquest is pending.

Funeral arrangements were through the Searby Funeral Home. Visitation was Monday evening. Per his wishes, cremation was to be conducted following the visitation.

Michael was a contractor for an auto body repair company. He was of the Christian faith.

He was born July 26, 1977 in Sparta, the son of Dwight S. and Diana L. (Owens) Hargis.

He is survived by his mother, Diana L. Hargis of Du Quoin; his father Dwight S. Hargis of Sparta; daughter Olivia M. Hargis of Du Quoin; brother Jeffrey Hargis of Marion and girlfriend, Amy Stephens of Du Quoin.

Friends may make memorials to an education fund for daughter Olivia and they can be sent to the funeral home.