Man trying to document America's 'kindness' admits shooting himself - Update

A man hitchhiking his way across America to write a book about the kindness of strangers has reportedly admitted shooting himself in the arm - and then concocting an elaborate story portraying himself as a victim of random violence.

Ray Dolin of Julian, W.Va., had told authorities in Montana that a motorist stopped alongside him on a rural road last week and opened fire. A driver matching the description was even taken into custody in connection with the shooting.



But late on Thursday night, Dolin admitted to law enforcement officials that he'd injured himself.

Now, comes a mystery that might be worth of its own tome: Was it an accident that he tried to cover up? Or was it a calculated attempt to drum up publicity for the book? (And what happened to the weapon?) The incident remains under investigation by the Valley County Sheriff's Department, and charges are possible.

Previously.