A Virginia hunter was killed in a terrible and uncommon hunting accident when a bear he shot fell from a tree and landed on him. The incident happened as Lester C. Harvey Jr., a 58-year-old father of five from Phenix, Virginia, was out with friends bear hunting. Harvey survived at first and received medical attention, but a few days later he passed away from his wounds. His family is in grief following the tragic incident, which has generated a range of responses on social media.
A Woods Day Becomes Fatal
As an experienced outdoor enthusiast, Harvey’s hunting trip started off like any other. He was hunting a black bear in the Virginia backcountry with a group of friends. The bear was eventually cornered by the hunters in a tree, which may have appeared like a common occurrence to them. But just as the party was about to end the quest, things took a tragic turn.
As an experienced outdoor enthusiast, Harvey’s hunting trip started off like any other. He was hunting a black bear in the Virginia backcountry with a group of friends. The bear was eventually cornered by the hunters in a tree, which may have appeared like a common occurrence to them. But just as the party was about to end the quest, things took a tragic turn.
The Bear’s Demise
The hunters chased the bear up the tree and then backed off, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources said in its investigation. Assuming the distance was safe, they shot the bear from around ten feet away. Sadly, Harvey was hit squarely by the bear when it collapsed. His injuries were too serious even after his fellow hunters and rescue personnel tried first aid right away.
A Brief Life
According to his obituary, Harvey was a man who was adored by his community and family. He was a self-employed contractor who was well-known for his outdoor passion and compassion. According to the obituary, “He never met a stranger.” Harvey leaves behind eight grandchildren, two daughters, three sons, and a wife who are all currently dealing with an unfathomable loss.
A Family Considers a Tragic Death
To show their sorrow and pay tribute to their father, Harvey’s kids resorted to social media. “Dad was doing what he loved most, bear hunting with me and some of his good friends when he was injured,” said one of his kids, who was present when the accident occurred. Another relative wrote, “The only time he missed work was to hunt,” characterizing Harvey as the most diligent worker they had ever encountered. I’m broken in ways I never even realized I was capable of. Please offer up prayers for us.
An Unlikely Mishap
While hunting mishaps are relatively unusual, animal falls that result in death are extremely infrequent. According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, no charges are being pursued in connection with the event.