A teenager accidentally shot himself in the leg while at Broadlawns Medical Center.

The 14-year-old's mother brought a handgun in her purse for a scheduled medical appointment at the hospital, 1801 Hickman Road, according to a news release from Des Moines Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Paul Parizek. She left the purse with her son and, while alone in the room, he accidentally fired it, striking himself in the leg, Parizek said.

Staff at the hospital moved the teenager to the emergency room for care. Police said he is recovering.

"There is no evidence that indicates any intent to threaten or harm anyone," Parizek said in the release.

The incident happened at about 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2.

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