Turkey hunter accidentally shot in face in Washington County

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Game Commission and state police are investigating the apparent accidental shooting of a turkey hunter in Washington County.

The incident happened early Monday in Smith Township near the intersection of Pleasant Valley and Cherry Joffre Valley roads, officials said.

Authorities said they believe the hunter was accidentally shot in the face by another hunter’s 12-gauge shotgun.

“He heard a gobble and then saw the movement and he shot,” Pa. Game Commission spokesperson Beth Fife said. “Then he heard the guy scream. The guy that got shot had no orange on. He didn’t see him at all.”

The victim’s name and condition have not been released, but officials said he walked out of the woods and into an ambulance.

Fife said the shooting appears to be an accident but could have been avoided if the victim was wearing orange.

“The shooter was already sitting out there ready to hunt, and this guy was walking up to go hunting,” Fife said. “You should put orange on, especially when you are moving because the woods are so thick right now.”

Wearing orange while turkey hunting is not a state law, but officials said it’s highly recommended.

Spring gobbler season began Saturday and runs through May 31.

WPXI