A Virginia man met a tragic end after a bear he had shot fell from a tree and landed on him.
This father-of-five encountered a catastrophic accident during what was supposed to be a routine hunting excursion. It may sound like a strange twist of fate, but it was a reality.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources released findings from their investigation into the fatal incident.
The report indicates that the accident occurred when the man’s hunting party had cornered a bear in a tree.
The victim has been identified as Lester C. Harvey Jr., a 58-year-old from Phenix, Virginia.
The group reportedly gathered around the tree to watch the bear they had pursued.
After deciding to move back, the hunters shot the bear, according to officials.
Harvey Jr was approximately 10 feet from the tree’s base when the incident occurred.
Even at what seemed like a safe distance, the bear’s fall proved fatal after it was shot.
After the bear fell on him, a fellow hunter in the group attempted to administer first aid until emergency services arrived.
Initially described as being in a ‘serious but stable condition’ after transportation to a hospital, Harvey Jr succumbed to his injuries days later.
An obituary highlights him as a self-employed contractor and a passionate outdoorsman who ‘was a friend to all and never met a stranger’.
He is survived by his wife, three sons, two daughters, and eight grandchildren.
According to 6news Richmond, a representative from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources stated: “The Department is not currently seeking any charges related to this incident.”
In a Facebook post reportedly written by the hunter’s son, he mentioned being present during the accident.
His son expressed, “Dad was doing what he loved most, bear hunting with me and some of his good friends when he was injured.”
“I love you dad,” he continued. “We had some great times…I am so thankful for all the memories we made and all you taught me I wouldn’t be the man I am now if it wasn’t for you.”
His daughter wrote: “My dad was the hardest worker I know. He was either working or hunting. The ONLY time he missed work was to hunt…I’m broken in ways I didn’t even know I could break. Please pray for us.”
Reactions on social media were mixed, with some showing little sympathy.
“Instant karma,” one user commented.
“Nobody eats bear. This was completely avoidable,” said another.
“Poetic justice,” remarked one on X, previously Twitter.
“I no longer understand the idea of shooting animals for fun. That hurts my heart,” added another commenter.