Grandfather killed when Kentucky gun store customer accidentally fires merchandise

A new grandfather was killed inside a Kentucky gun shop Saturday when another customer accidentally fired a weapon, police said.

The tragedy occurred around 8:30 p.m. at Humphrey Double H Farms Enterprises Inc. in Carrollton when an unidentified shopper who was viewing a firearm began “manipulating it,” state troopers said Monday.

A single round was discharged, striking 50-year-old Chad Wainscott, who was also inside the shop.

Other customers rushed to Wainscott’s rescue until EMS arrived, but the ill-fated customer succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital, according to police.

“Chad had a heart of gold … would NEVER let a conversation end with goodbye always See you Later ! A beautiful soul all the way around,” one mourner wrote on his obituary page.

There have been no charges in the shooting death, with troopers saying the gunman is cooperating with investigators.

According to loved ones, Wainscott — affectionately nicknamed “Little Chigger” in honor of his own grandfather — had recently become a grandad himself to his “adored” baby Lance.

Wainscott worked as a farmer who worked with his father for the last several years, and was well known in the community for his love of the open air.

“His love for the outdoors defined him, with some of his favorite pastimes including hunting, collecting guns, hats & knives, searching for four leaf clovers, and capturing the beauty of sunsets and cows through photography. Chad was known to be most happiest outdoors,” his grieving family said.

“Chad’s warm smile and infectious personality will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.”