Bend duck hunter accidentally shot in leg

One Bend duck hunter accidentally shot another in the leg on Sunday as they climbed over a downed tree during an outing along the Deschutes River near Sunriver, Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies said.

Deschutes County 911 dispatchers received a report around 11:30 a.m. of the accidental shooting, said sheriff’s Sgt. Dan Bilyeu. Deputies were joined by Sunriver police and fire medics and U.S. Forest Service law enforcement in responding to the area between Sunriver and Benham Falls, northwest of the resort community.

Colton Nye, 21, and Jesse Derrick, 22, had been duck hunting on the river and were returning to their vehicle when the incident occurred, the sergeant said.

Nye was in the lead as the two walked single-file along a trail beside the river, Bilyeu said.

Nye crossed over a downed tree and continued up the path. As Derrick crossed the same tree, the 12-gauge shotgun he was carrying discharged a single round, striking Nye in the back of his left leg at close range, Bilyeu said. Derrick quickly called 911 to report the shooting and began first aid on Nye.

Nye was treated at the scene by Sunriver medics and flown to St. Charles Bend with non-life-threatening injuries. He was listed in fair condition Sunday night, a nursing supervisor said.

While the incident remains under investigation, the sheriff’s office offered a reminder that proper firearms safety is a critical element of all outings that involve them.

“A seemingly small mistake can have tragic consequences,” Bilyeu wrote, listing the top four National Rifle Association firearms safety rules:

–Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.

–Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

–Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use, and

–Know your target and what is beyond.