• 16
  • December
    2011

A 53 year-old man from Tuscaloosa was shot in a hunting accident this past Sunday near Elrod. The victim was shot and injured in the torso by a friend of his son. The 25 year-old shooter mistakenly thought he was alone in the area. He fired two shots at what he thought was the reflection of a deer's eyes.

The Alabama hunting accident occurred on private land near John Harless Road. The victim had on an orange hat with an attached light. The shooter was issued a citation by an Alabama Conservation officer for not wearing the required safety orange, as well as for not having a hunting license or buck harvest record.

After authorities responded to the 911 call, the victim was taken to DCH Regional Medical Center for emergency surgery. He is now recovering from his injuries. The Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's office and Tuscaloosa Metro Homicide Unit are still investigating the case. Sheriff Ted Sexton believes the victim does not wish to press charges.

Proper Safety Precautions to Avoid Alabama Hunting Accidents

Alabama law mandates that hunters display at least 144 square inches of hunter orange worn above the waste. Hunters should always be able to clearly see their target as well as identify what is behind it. Alabama's hunter education program covers a variety of other safety precautions hunters should abide by.

Sheriff Sexton also encourages hunters to be on the lookout for people other than fellow hunters that may be engaged in outdoor activities. These individuals may not be wearing bright colors that make them easily identifiable.

Source: al.com, Tuscaloosa man recovering after being shot in hunting accident, Chris Pow, 12 December 2011