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September 18, 2010

Peru Man Injured When Gun Lever Explodes

Augusta, Maine - A 49-year-old Peru man suffered injuries to his right hand when the lever action on the Marlin 45-70 rifle he was using exploded upon firing during target practice at a gravel pit in Roxbury.

Kevin Hostetter, 49, of Peru was target practicing at a gravel pit off of Walker Brook Road in Roxbury around noon today.

Maine Warden Service Game Wardens Kris Barboza and Brock Clukey and MWS Sgt. Scott Thrasher as well as Sgt. Tim Holland from Oxford County Sheriff's Office responded.

Mr. Hostetter was transported from the scene by his son to Rumford Community Hospital. He was then transferred to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

Injuries included a dislocated thumb as well as cuts and burns.

This incident is under investigation by the Maine Warden Service.

The firearm will be tested at the Firearms Lab, which is part of the Maine State Police Crime Lab, to determine the cause of the explosion.