Hunter Killed by Falling Bear in Unusual Virginia Hunting Accident

A 58-year-old man died after being struck by a bear shot out of a tree by another hunter, in violation of Virginia's hunting regulations.

The incident occurred on December 9, 2024, in Lunenburg County, Virginia, during a group bear hunt.
A hunter shot a black bear that had climbed into a tree, causing the animal to fall and fatally strike a 58-year-old man standing nearby.
The victim, a father of five and grandfather of eight, succumbed to his injuries on December 13 after being hospitalized in critical condition.
Virginia law prohibits shooting or dislodging a bear from a tree to continue a hunt, but authorities have stated no charges will be filed in this case.
Black bears in North America can weigh up to 220 kilograms, and the Virginia Department of Wildlife described the incident as highly unusual.