AI was utilized in the writing of this article.
Jimmy Dean
February 3, 2024
In the wake of a recent hunting accident in Baca County, Colorado, where a 70-year-old Iowa man was inadvertently shot by his hunting partner while pursuing a coyote, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is urging hunters to exercise heightened awareness and caution during their hunting expeditions. This incident, which occurred on January 25th, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with hunting and the importance of adhering to safety protocols.
According to a CPW press release, the incident unfolded when three hunters from Iowa spotted a coyote approximately 50 feet away. One of the hunters fired his shotgun at the animal but missed. In an unfortunate turn of events, he swung his shotgun around and fired again, this time hitting one of his companions. The victim sustained pellet wounds but was reported to be in good spirits following the incident.
Todd Marriott, CPW area wildlife manager in Lamar, highlighted this incident as a “classic example of failure to maintain ‘zone of fire’ awareness.” Marriott emphasized that hunters must always be aware not only of their target but also of the whereabouts of their fellow hunters. This incident underscores the importance of maintaining situational awareness at all times during hunting activities.
Despite the seriousness of this incident, Marriott noted that such accidents are extremely rare in hunting. The victim’s injuries were not life-threatening and he was flown to a hospital in Colorado Springs for further examination. The shooter, identified as 48-year-old Matthew Mullenix from Urbandale, Iowa, was issued a summons for careless hunting – an unclassified misdemeanor punishable by a fine ranging from $100 to $1,000.