Port Lincoln police chief inspector Brad Flaherty said at this stage people believed the man was accidentally shot in the back by another occupant of the vehicle at about 9.50pm, but investigations are continuing.

The 48-year-old man was taken from the scene by ambulance to the Cummins Hospital and transferred to the Port Lincoln Hospital for surgery yesterday, and is expected to make a full recovery.

Chief Inspector Flaherty said police believed the man was shot with a .22 hornet while out shooting vermin with three other men.

He said yesterday morning police believed a gun was fired by a passenger in the back seat of the car and the bullet travelled through the seat into the man’s back.

“At this stage it appears the gun was accidentally discharged by the passenger, but investigations are continuing,” he said.

Police believed the bullet had fragmented prior to hitting the man, which would have reduced the impact.

Port Lincoln CIB, Crime Scene, local police and ambulance volunteers attended the scene.

Chief Inspector Flaherty said the incident was a timely reminder for people to treat all firearms with the greatest respect.

“Always treat them as loaded, never have guns loaded while in a vehicle, us the safety catch at all times and, while it has not been determined as a factor in this incident, never mix alcohol and firearms.”

Charges may be laid following the police investigation.