Sources familiar with the situation disclosed to AFP that Kendji Girac, a former champion of France’s version of The Voice, was hospitalized on Monday following a gunshot wound to the chest.
Police responded to a call at a traveller site in Biscarrosse, located on France’s southwestern coast, around 5:30 am (0330 GMT), where they discovered Girac injured.
The 27-year-old was subsequently admitted to Bordeaux Hospital, with reports indicating that his injuries were not life-threatening.
According to one source, Girac informed first responders that he accidentally shot himself while handling a Colt 45 automatic pistol he had purchased from a thrift store.
Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities in their investigation and have yet to interrogate Girac.
The scene of the incident was cordoned off by police throughout Monday morning but was later cleared in the early afternoon.
Emilio, who identified himself as Girac’s uncle, emphasized that the shooting was an accident while speaking to AFP at the campsite. He mentioned that they were playing the guitar peacefully when the incident occurred.
Family members of Girac visited Bordeaux’s Haut-Leveque Hospital but refrained from speaking to the media.
Despite initial reports suggesting Girac’s life was in danger, a source close to the investigation clarified that his injuries were not critical, and he was conscious when emergency services arrived.
While an investigation into the shooting has been initiated according to some sources, local prosecutors have not confirmed this.
Kendji Girac, whose real name is Kendji Maille, gained fame after winning The Voice in 2014 and subsequently rose to stardom with viral hits like “Color Gitano” and “Andalouse,” which reflect his Catalan Roma background
