A man first reported shot in the face Sunday night actually was not the victim of gunfire, but witnesses said he was pistol-whipped.

According to Statesboro police Community Information Specialist Madison Warren, officers were first dispatched to The Lodge Apartments on Institute Street around 

9:50 p.m. regarding reports a man had been "shot in the face."

During the time of the call, Statesboro police officers were heard on police radio at the scene, unable to locate the victim but seeking a female in the area.

The 46-year-old male victim's parents were on the scene as well, telling officers "they arrived there after someone called them and told them the victim was shot in the face," Warren said.

In the meantime, an unidentified female took the victim to the hospital emergency room, but left before police could get her information, she said.

The victim was "uncooperative, refused to sign any forms, and repeatedly said he was drunk, fell off a chair and struck a table."

Witnesses at the scene told police the victim had been "pistol-whipped" and suffered facial injuries.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Statesboro Police Department at (912) 764-9911.

Anonymous tips may be made online at www.tipsoft.com, or by texting "TIPSSPD" followed by the message to 274637 (CRIMES). All information is strictly confidential, Warren said.

Herald reporter Holli Deal Saxon may be reached at (912) 489-9414.