Oklahoma Man Mistakenly Shot by Visiting Indiana Hunter, Violations Cited

WOODS COUNTY, OK (KOKH) — According to the Oklahoma Game Wardens, a turkey hunter had to be transported to a hospital after being shot in Woods County on the first day of spring turkey season.

After being notified about the incident, Game Wardens started their investigation.

Investigators learned that an Oklahoma resident was shot by a person from his hunting party on April 16 around 7:15 am. Officials said the victim and a friend, who had permission to hunt a piece of private property, were hosting two Indiana residents on a turkey hunt.

The victim and partner put out the two Indiana residents near a baited feeder at dawn. Afterwards, the Oklahoma residents set back in the trees across the open field to watch the nonresidents’ hunt unfold. Three jake turkeys came in to the feeder and an Indiana hunter shot the first Jake right in line with their hunting party spectators. The victim was transported to the local hospital and treated for several pellet strikes. – Oklahoma Game Wardens

Game Wardens learned that the shooter was less than 50 yards away from the victim.

The Oklahoma Game Warden said no charges were filed for the accidental shooting; however, the parties involved were cited for illegally possessing turkeys within 100 yards of bait.

Hunters should exercise extra caution during the spring turkey season. Officials said turkey hunters are clothed head to toe in camouflage while making turkey sounds, making them more likely to be mistaken for game or in the line of fire.

Be safe out there, and always identify your target and what lies beyond! Oklhoma Game Wardens