SAN ANTONIO (August 7, 2012)—A Bexar County sheriff’s deputy accidentally shot himself in the hand during his 26th birthday party, authorities say.

Officials at University Hospital in San Antonio say Deputy Eric Espino was in fair and stable condition Tuesday after he was wounded while off duty early Monday during the party.

Detective Louis Antu says Espino evidently put his hand over the muzzle of a shotgun.

He was injured when he picked up the weapon and it discharged.

Investigators are trying to determine whether alcohol played a role in the injury to the detention officer.