A Virginia man has tragically passed away after an unusual hunting accident involving a falling bear. Lester C. Harvey, 58, of Phenix, Virginia, died on December 13, days after a bear shot by his hunting party fell from a tree and struck him.
Bear Falls From Tree After Being Shot
The accident occurred on December 9 in Lunenburg County, situated between Richmond and Danville. According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Harvey was part of a hunting group tracking a bear that climbed a tree to evade pursuit. As the group moved away from the tree, one of the hunters fired at the bear. The shot struck its mark, and the bear plummeted from the tree, landing directly on Harvey, who was approximately 10 feet away from the base.
Immediate Response and Medical Efforts
A fellow hunter provided first aid at the scene before Harvey was rushed to two separate hospitals for treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries four days later. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources expressed condolences to Harvey’s family in the wake of the tragic accident.
Remembering Lester C. Harvey
Harvey’s obituary paints a picture of a dedicated family man and avid outdoorsman. He was a self-employed contractor, a husband, father of five, and a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren. Known for his love of nature, Harvey was deeply involved in outdoor activities, making the accident all the more poignant for those who knew him.
Similar Incidents Highlight Hunting Risks
This tragic event is not the first of its kind. In 2018, a hunter in Alaska was critically injured when a bear shot on a ridge tumbled down and struck him, dislodging rocks in the process. In another incident in 2019, a North Carolina hunter was bitten by a bear that fell out of a tree after being shot. The encounter ended with both the hunter and the bear tumbling off a cliff, resulting in injuries to the man and the bear’s death.
A Reminder of Hunting’s Dangers
The incident underscores the unpredictable nature of hunting, particularly when dealing with large, wild animals. Bears, though often the target of hunters, can pose unique dangers even after being mortally wounded. Falling animals, combined with rough terrain, can create hazardous situations for hunters in close proximity.
Safety Tips for Hunters
Wildlife officials recommend several precautions to minimize risks during hunting expeditions:
- Maintain Safe Distances: Ensure adequate space from trees or elevated areas where animals may fall.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: Assess terrain and other potential hazards before taking a shot.
- Use Proper Equipment: Carry necessary gear to provide immediate first aid in case of accidents.
- Communicate Clearly: Ensure all members of the group understand positioning and plans during a hunt.
Honoring a Passionate Outdoorsman
While hunting accidents are rare, they serve as sobering reminders of the inherent risks involved. Lester Harvey’s passing has deeply affected his community, which remembers him as a man who cherished his family and the great outdoors. His story is a poignant call to honor and respect both the beauty and danger of nature.
For any feedback please message Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com
- Watch: Wild Bear Charges Photographers in Alaska - January 5, 2025
- Watch: Rare Close Encounter of Huge Gorilla with a Chest-Thumping Display - January 5, 2025
- Cat Walks 12 Miles To Reunite With Family Who Abandoned Him Only to Be Rejected Again - January 4, 2025