A hunter tragically lost his life on December 9 when he was struck by a falling bear during a group hunt in Lunenburg County, Virginia. This unusual and fatal accident occurred when hunters pursued the animal, which climbed a tree to escape. According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, as the group began to move away from the tree, one hunter shot at the bear, causing it to fall and land on Lester C. Harvey, who was positioned approximately 10 feet away from the tree's base.
Harvey, 58, of Phenix, Virginia, sustained serious injuries and received immediate first aid from fellow hunters until emergency medical services arrived. Despite being transported to two hospitals, Harvey succumbed to his injuries on December 13, just days after the accident. "The department is not currently seeking any charges related to this incident," stated Shelby Crouch, spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
According to reports from various news outlets, Harvey was described as an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting. His family said he was married with five children and had eight grandchildren, highlighting the depth of loss felt by his loved ones. "Dad was doing what he loved most, bear hunting with me and some of his good friends when he was injured," shared his son, Josh Harvey, on social media. This heartfelt tribute illustrated the bond they shared during these activities.
Preliminary investigations revealed the bear was shot as it fled up the tree. The bear fell approximately 10 feet, landing directly on Harvey. Following the accident, Harvey was taken to VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital and later moved to VCU Medical Center about 80 miles away. He was initially listed as serious but stable, only to later succumb to his injuries.
Harvey's obituary reflected his optimistic spirit, describing him as "a friend to all and never met a stranger." His character was encapsulated by friends and family, displaying his commitment to being there for others. "I went from having the best husband and... to being a widow..." expressed April Dawn Harvey, his wife, on social media. Her poignant words touched the hearts of those who knew the family.
Interestingly, incidents like Harvey's are not entirely unprecedented within the hunting community. Reports indicate similar occurrences, such as when another hunter was critically injured after being struck by dislodged rocks when his partner shot a bear. And yet another case from North Carolina involved a bear falling from a tree and later injuring its shooter. These tragic events force both hunters and wildlife officials to reflect on safety protocols.
Despite the bizarre circumstances surrounding Harvey’s accident, it raises awareness about the inherent risks involved with bear hunting, especially when using hounds to track. Virginia law prohibits actions intended to harm or dislodge wildlife from trees, emphasizing the need for hunters to follow regulations carefully. Violations of this nature are often reported and investigated, contributing to the dialogue surrounding responsible hunting practices.
The community mourns Harvey, with funeral services held at Mount Carmel United Methodist Church, where friends and family gathered to honor him. Attendees shared stories and memories, capturing the essence of the man who was not merely defined by his tragic end but rather by the love and laughter he brought to those around him.
Harvey’s story serves as both a tragic reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of safety and respect within the hunting community. The repercussions of this unfortunate incident may resonate for years to come, not only among his family and friends but also within those who partake in similar hunting adventures.
While the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources continues to monitor the circumstances surrounding incidents of this nature, the conversation around safe hunting practices persists, urging recreational hunters to exercise caution.”