What’s New
A Virginia hunter has died after a bear in a tree, shot by one of his hunting partners, fell on him, state wildlife officials said on Tuesday.
Why It Matters
Hunting is a large part of the U.S. economy, with a 2022 report from Sportsmen’s Alliance finding that recreational hunters and sport shooters contributed $149 billion to the national economy in 2020 and supported nearly 970,000 jobs.
In addition, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service survey data shows that 11.5 million Americans enjoy hunting, around two thirds of whom only use firearms.
What To Know
The incident occurred on December 9 in Virginia’s Lunenburg County, located between Richmond and Danville, according to a statement from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
Officials said the hunting group was pursuing a bear when it climbed a tree. However, after retreating for safety, one of the hunters shot the animal and the bear fell from the tree, striking Lester C. Harvey, who was standing approximately 10 feet from its base.
A fellow group member administered first aid at the scene before Harvey, 58, was rushed to two separate hospitals. Despite efforts to save him, Harvey succumbed to his injuries on Friday.
What People Are Saying
Harvey, a resident of Phenix, Virginia, was remembered in an obituary as a beloved husband, father of five, and grandfather to eight. He was described as a self-employed contractor and a passionate outdoorsman.
A Recurring Risk
The incident involving Harvey is not unprecedented. A similar incident happened in 2018, when an Alaskan hunter suffered critical injuries after a bear, shot by his partner, rolled down a ridge and struck him. Rocks dislodged by the bear had also hit the man.
In addition, a North Carolina hunter in 2019 faced a harrowing encounter when a bear shot in a tree fell, bit him and caused both to tumble off a cliff. The hunter survived after receiving hospital care.
Hunting Accidents By The Numbers
This comes as many people are injured or killed during hunting expeditions each year across the U.S.
Data from the International Hunter Education Association reveals that there were around 1,000 firearm-related hunting accidents across the country each year between 2002 and 2007. Around one in ten of these resulted in death.
What Happens Next
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has not indicated whether additional safety recommendations will be issued in light of this tragic event.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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