CT - Hunting accident in Salem
Hunting accident in Salem
by News Channel 8's Tina Detelj
Posted May 22, 2008 Updated 5:20 PM
Salem (WTNH) _ A man is recovering tonight after he fell victim to a
hunting accident in Salem Thursday morning.
It happened in a wooded area near Round Hill Road around 10:30 a.m.
Blood spattered leaves mark the spot where the 50-year old hunter was
crouched down, ready to take his own shot at a turkey. Instead, he was
hit by another hunter, 70 yards away.
"Pellets from a shot in the face and the leg as well," said Paul
O'Connell from the Department of Environmental Protection.
O'Connell says the man's injuries were not serious. Both men were
taken to William Backus Hospital. The shooter was shaken up. The men
were not hunting together.
DEP officers say that turkey hunting can be one of the more dangerous
types of hunting because sportsman wear camouflage to blend in with
their surrounding and they don't need to wear orange.
Bob Williamson owns a nearby sporting goods store. He says many
turkey hunters use lead pellets that spread out toward a target.
"The number one rule is to identify your game before you take a
shot," Williamson said.
The most effective shot at a turkey is within 30 feet and that may
also be the safest shot.
"It was an accidental shooting and thank goodness the outcome was
good. It wasn't a serious injury. It was very, very minor," O'Connell
said.
O'Connell says there are usually only a couple of hunting accidents
each year and sometimes, none.
