Teenager shot dead after being mistaken for a squirrel
A teenager has been shot dead in Iowa after he was mistaken for a squirrel while on a hunting trip.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources have tragically confirmed that Carson Ryan was shot in the head by a fellow hunter while on an expedition in the Brighton region of Iowa.
They said in a statement: “Carson Ryan, 17, of Washington, was mistaken for a squirrel by a member of his hunting party and was struck in the back of the head. Ryan was transported to UI Health Care Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.”
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the sheriff’s office in Washington County have since opened an investigation into his passing.
Ryan was a student at Washington High School and a member of the track and field team. They have since honoured the 17-year-old by saying: “Washington Boy’s Track & Field team asks you keep Carson’s Mom, family, classmates and teammates in your hearts as we navigate the devastating loss of Carson. Our hearts are broken.”
On September 29th, staff and students within the Pekin Schools District were invited to wear orange and black, which are the track and field colours for Washington High School.
A GoFundMe has also been set up and has currently raised more than $56,000 to support the late teenager’s family. Its organiser, Kelsie Wheeler, said: “Our dear friend, Heidi, is facing an unimaginable tragedy. Her beloved son, Carson, was taken far too soon in a tragic accident. No parent should ever have to experience such a heartbreaking loss, and our hearts are broken alongside hers.”
While the death is currently being treated as an accidental shooting, the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ryan’s passing remains ongoing.