Release Number 20090401-02

January 4, 2009

KABUL, Afghanistan – Three Afghans were wounded at a police checkpoint in the Panjwayi district of Kandahar on January 1st when the vehicle they were traveling in failed to stop when warned. The incident occurred at approximately 4 p.m.

The vehicle approached the checkpoint at a high rate of speed. A warning shot into the front of the vehicle deflected and struck the driver in the foot. When the vehicle did not stop, a second warning shot was fired, injuring two passengers.

All three injured Afghans were treated at the scene and medically evacuated from the site for further treatment.
The injuries received were not life-threatening and injured are reported in stable condition.

“Coalition forces do their best to prevent injuries to the Afghan people and provide medical care when incidents like this happen,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces spokesperson. “We will investigate the incident and review our warning procedures to ensure that we are doing everything possible to protect the Afghan people.’

The incident is under investigation.