Police: Elgin man accidentally shot himself in chest

An Elgin man is facing charges after police say he accidentally shot himself in the chest Sunday.

Bernhard McPherson, 28, of the 1100 block of Peach Tree Lane, Elgin, was charged with possession of a firearm without a Firearm Owners Identification card and obstructing a peace officer after police were called to McPherson's home around 6 p.m. Sunday.

McPherson initially told police that an unknown male shot him in when he walked onto his porch to smoke a cigarette, police said. McPherson was taken to Presence Saint Joseph Hospital and was treated for injuries not considered life-threatening.

Witnesses verified his story, but after investigating the shooting, police said they determined McPherson shot himself while handling a firearm. Detectives recovered the gun used in the accidental shooting.

McPherson posted $150 cash bond and was released.