TEMPLE, Texas — A 30-year-old man with extensive military and firearms experience died following a shooting incident at the Temple Gun Club, authorities confirmed.

Zakary Michael Jerke succumbed to his injuries at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple after suffering a gunshot wound to the head, according to the Bell County Sheriff’s Office.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving a 911 call reporting a person with a gunshot wound at the members-only facility located off FM 438 Loop, east of Temple.

The Bell County Sheriff’s Office, Temple Police Department, Troy Fire Department, and Temple Emergency Medical Services responded to the call. Justice of the Peace Ted Duffield has ordered an autopsy to be performed at the Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Friends of Jerke expressed shock and disbelief at the incident, emphasizing his extensive background with firearms and commitment to safety protocols.

“This just doesn’t add up,” said Jerke’s close friend, who wants to remain unnamed. “Zak was a Marine. He was an armorer and even taught marksmanship. He ran shooting ranges and trained people on safety.”

Jerke served two enlistments in the military—one as a Marine and another in the Army—where he worked as an armorer and combat marksmanship instructor.

“Jerke was a rare breed these days,” Jerke’s friend said. “He had an excellent work ethic and a positive attitude towards everything. Everywhere he served, he positively influenced people around him.”

Friends also shared how he was a person, calling him a hero.

“He was in a good place. Happy, and competitive in tournaments. None of us think he did this to himself,” they stated. “No matter how downtrodden a situation may have been, you could always count on him to uplift others, buckle down, and get it done. This man was truly a hero to many, and his death is a tragedy that should not go unnoticed.”

The Bell County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division and the Texas Rangers are investigating the incident. Authorities have not released details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Temple Gun Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the Second Amendment of the US Constitution and promoting shooting sports. According to its website, the club offers “training and shooting opportunities for all levels of shooters” and maintains a shooting range for members and guests.

The National Rifle Association emphasizes three fundamental gun safety rules: always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.