Payson Roundup

An investigation is continuing into why a woman shot herself in the leg outside her home Thursday afternoon.

Payson police responded to calls that a 46-year-old Payson woman was shooting a handgun outside her home in the 900 block of W. Bridle Path Lane.

When police arrived around 11:30 a.m., they found Stephanie Downing outside of her home firing rounds from a handgun. One of the rounds apparently struck a nearby home, officers said.

“As officers arrived, the shots continued,” said Chief Don Engler. “After firing several rounds, Downing then pointed the weapon at her leg and fired a round, striking herself in the leg.”

After Downing shot herself, officers were able to approach her and take her into custody.

Downing was treated on scene by the Payson Fire Department, and then transported by Lifestar ambulance to a helicopter. She was flown to a Phoenix-area hospital for treatment.

In all, Downing fired seven rounds, one of which hit a neighbor’s home across the street.

No one was struck or injured in the incident, except for Downing.

Engler said detectives are still investigating, with criminal charges pending.