The shooter was identified only as a hunting partner. The shooting victim was shot twice in the chest and once in the thigh with an automatic weapon and was taken to hospital where he was reported to be in critical condition.

The head of Asir police, Gen. Obaid Al-Obaid, called upon families to practice firearm safety.

“Recklessness causes damaging consequences,” said Al-Obaid, adding that young people must be taught safe handling of firearms. “It is a dangerous situation and against regulations that govern gun ownership (not to practice proper firearm handling),” said Al-Obaid, who ordered a full investigation into the matter.

Saudis can own and use firearms with a permit for the purpose of hunting and protecting livestock. Infractions can lead to fines, confiscation of weapons and a two-year firearm-license ban.