The difference between these two reports is striking, and one more example why we should not accept random news reports as factual. Both reports leave out details to make the incident appear in the light they desire.
As far as the explanation of Bubba's behavior after he shot himself, as long as we are speculating on his BAC, then why not speculate on his legal ability to possess firearms as well? That would explain the hiding of the gun, the going to a friend for help, and the uncooperativeness with authorities.
The pistol was quite possibly a cocked and locked 1911 that became a cocked and unlocked 1911 while bouncing around on a truck seat. I, too, think Bubba was likely grabbing the pistol by the muzzle, pulling it towards him when the trigger caught on something, releasing the hammer.
This is a Rule Two thing.