Maine Man Charged After Woman Shot in Otisfield

Authorities say a woman ended up in the hospital Saturday night after being shot in the hand and the person responsible was reportedly aiming an AR-15 “recklessly” nearby.

According to the Oxford County Sheriff’s Office and WGME 13, the call came in around 7:10 p.m., reporting that a woman had been injured on Bell Hill Road. When officers arrived, they transported her to Stephens Memorial Hospital. Officials say her injuries are not life-threatening.

WGME says 38-year-old John K. Pottle Jr., of Otisfield, was allegedly handling the firearm recklessly when the shot struck the woman’s hand. The incident is being treated as a serious case of carelessness with a weapon.

Pottle was arrested and taken to the Oxford County Jail. He now faces charges of Reckless Conduct with a Dangerous Weapon, a Class C offense, and Aggravated Assault, which is Class B. His bail has been set at $5,000 according to the news station.

The sheriff’s office says the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact local authorities.

While details are still emerging, the case serves as a stark reminder about firearm safety and the dangers of handling weapons recklessly, especially around others. No further updates on the woman’s condition have been released at this time.