WOODS COUNTY, OK – A turkey hunter found themselves in an unfortunate situation on the first day of spring turkey season in Woods County, Oklahoma. According to the Oklahoma Game Wardens, the hunter had to be transported to a hospital after sustaining injuries from a gunshot.

Incident Details

The incident occurred on April 16th around 7:15 am when an Oklahoma resident was accidentally shot by a member of their hunting party. The victim and their companion, who had legal permission to hunt on private property, were hosting two hunters from Indiana for a turkey hunt.

The victim and their companion positioned the Indiana hunters near a baited feeder at dawn and settled in the trees across the field to observe the hunt. However, when three jake turkeys approached the feeder, one of the Indiana hunters mistakenly shot towards the birds, inadvertently hitting the victim who was in the line of fire.

Response and Investigation

Upon receiving notification of the incident, Game Wardens initiated an investigation. It was revealed that the shooter was less than 50 yards away from the victim at the time of the accident. While no charges were filed for the accidental shooting, all parties involved were cited for illegally possessing turkeys within 100 yards of bait.

Safety Precautions

Officials emphasized the importance of exercising caution during the spring turkey season. Hunters are often dressed in camouflage attire and mimic turkey sounds, which can increase the risk of being mistaken for game or being caught in the line of fire.

Conclusion: Stay Safe While Hunting

As spring turkey season continues, it’s crucial for hunters to prioritize safety at all times. Always identify your target and be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents like this one. Let’s ensure that every hunting trip ends safely for all involved.

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