Rathdrum Police: Negligent discharge was fatal

RATHDRUM — The male victim in the April 10 negligent shooting incident in Rathdrum has been identified as 21-year-old Cody Evenson.

Rathdrum Police reported Evenson died shortly after being transported to a local hospital. It was determined that he recently purchased his first handgun and had taken it to his mother’s house to show family members.

While the firearm was being handled, it discharged one round. The round struck Evenson, causing injuries that led to his death.

"As longtime residents of Rathdrum, our department has had previous opportunities to positively interact with Cody, his family, and his friends," Rathdrum Police said in an official statement sent to The Press on Monday. "Our department is saddened by his loss and offers our condolences to Cody’s family and friends."

The Rathdrum Police Department asks that people handling firearms remember the four cardinal rules of firearm safety:

• Always treat firearms as if they are loaded.

• Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

• Never point the firearm at anything you don’t intend on shooting.

• Be aware of your target’s backdrop.