A Virginia man was tragically killed during a hunting trip when a bear shot out of a tree by one of his hunting partners fell on him. The incident occurred on December 9 in Lunenburg County, Virginia, as a hunting group was tracking the bear. When the bear ran up a tree, the group began retreating, and one of the hunters shot the bear, causing it to fall onto Lester C. Harvey, who was standing about 10 feet from the bottom of the tree. Despite receiving first aid and being rushed to two different hospitals, Harvey succumbed to his injuries a few days later.
Lester C. Harvey, a 58-year-old resident of Phenix, Virginia, was an avid outdoorsman and self-employed contractor. He leaves behind a wife, five children, and eight grandchildren. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that can be associated with hunting, particularly when dealing with wild animals like bears. Similar incidents have occurred in recent years in the United States, with one man in Alaska being critically injured after his hunting partner shot a bear that subsequently fell onto him, and another man in North Carolina being attacked by a bear that fell out of a tree when shot.
The incident in Virginia is a sobering reminder of the risks associated with hunting and engaging with wild animals. Even experienced hunters can be caught off guard by unexpected events, such as a bear falling from a tree after being shot. Injuries and fatalities can occur in such situations, highlighting the need for caution and proper safety measures when participating in hunting activities. The tragic death of Lester C. Harvey has left his family and community in mourning, underscoring the importance of prioritizing safety and awareness while engaging in outdoor activities involving wildlife.
The Department of Wildlife Resources in Virginia has noted that similar incidents have occurred in recent years, including cases in Alaska and North Carolina where hunters were injured after bears fell on them when shot. These incidents serve as cautionary tales for hunters and highlight the unpredictable nature of encounters with wild animals. It is essential for hunters to be aware of their surroundings, follow proper hunting protocols, and exercise caution when dealing with potentially dangerous game. The tragic death of Lester C. Harvey underscores the need for hunters to prioritize safety and take all necessary precautions to prevent accidents in the field.
The loss of Lester C. Harvey has had a profound impact on his family, friends, and community, as they mourn the passing of a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. His obituary describes him as an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time in nature and pursuing his passion for hunting. The incident that led to his death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in hunting and the importance of respecting the wildlife that hunters encounter. Harvey’s tragic death will not be forgotten, and his memory will serve as a reminder of the need for caution and vigilance when engaging in outdoor activities involving wildlife.
In conclusion, the death of Lester C. Harvey in Virginia serves as a tragic reminder of the risks associated with hunting and encounters with wild animals such as bears. The incident highlights the importance of prioritizing safety, following proper hunting protocols, and exercising caution when engaging in hunting activities. Similar incidents have occurred in recent years in other states, underscoring the unpredictable nature of encounters with wild animals and the potential dangers that hunters may face. The loss of Harvey has left a void in his family and community, reminding everyone of the need to respect and approach wildlife with caution and awareness. Harvey’s memory will live on as a reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance in the outdoors.
