Connor Merritt

A Virginia hunting trip turned deadly on December 9 when a bear shot by a hunter fell from a tree, fatally injuring one of the hunters below, according to a statement from Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR) officials. 

How a Bear Falls on a Hunter 

The incident occurred in Lunenburg County, when a group of hunters were pursuing a black bear that climbed into a tree. As the group retreated, one hunter shot the bear. The bear fell approximately ten feet, striking Lester C. Harvey, 58, of Phenix, Virginia, who was standing at the tree’s base. Despite immediate first aid from a member of the hunting group and efforts by emergency responders, Harvey succumbed to his injuries after being transferred to two hospitals. 

VDWR officials have stated they are not pursuing charges, as the circumstances appear to be an accident. “The Department is not currently seeking any charges related to this incident,” VDWR officials confirmed in a statement reported by CBS affiliate WTVR. 

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Honoring Lester C. Harvey 

Harvey, described in his obituary as a self-employed contractor and avid outdoorsman, leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, five children, and eight grandchildren. His funeral is scheduled for Thursday, December 19, marking a somber close to a beloved outdoorsman’s life. 

Black bears are common across Virginia, inhabiting 92 of the state’s 98 counties. The VDWR reminds hunters that it is illegal to intentionally harm or dislodge a bear from a tree to continue a hunt, train dogs, or otherwise pursue the animal. 

Though hunting accidents like this are rare, they serve as reminders of the risks that can come with pursuing big game in the wild. iSportsmanUSA extends its condolences to Harvey’s family and friends during this difficult time. 

Read the full story on CBS News. 

Learn about other bear falls and bear safety on iSportsmanUSA.