One of the hardest parts of being a law enforcement officer is going to a scene where someone has been injured. It’s even tougher when you know the person.

Faribault County Sheriff Mike Gormley knows the feeling all too well.

On Tuesday, July 22, county authorities responded to a call at 4:30 p.m. involving an accidental shooting at 9135 560th Ave., Bricelyn.

The residence is that of Eugene Stallkamp, where 15-year-old, Collin Jacobson, had been shot in the face with a .38-caliber handgun.

“It’s the nature of the job, but you never get use to it. You just go forward,” says Gormley.

Collin was airlifted to St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, where he was listed in critical condition on Thursday.

Also at the residence at the time of the incident, say officials, was 19-year-old Daniel Stallkamp of Bricelyn.

Gormley says he went to the hospital on Wednesday and visited Collin’s parents, Steve and Kim.

“They are having a tough time. They’re living a nightmare,” he says.

A website to send messages of support has been created: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/collinjacobson

Gormley says the website has had “numerous” hits.

“The family is appreciative of all the prayers and support they have gotten,” Gormley says.

A fund has been established at First Bank Blue Earth.

Chris Teskey of Thrivent Financial in Blue Earth says friends visiting the Jacobsons decided to open an account for Collin after talking about it in a waiting room. “In addition to the emotional support we just felt they would need financial help in the future. It’s going to be a long road to recovery,” says Teskey.

Gormley says his department and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension are continuing their investigation. Also assisting at the scene was the Bricelyn Ambulance.