November 5, 2010
Hunter Arrested After Shooting Man He Thought Was A Squirrel Bow Hunter Mistaken For Squirrel Shot In Head, Back
CLARK COUNTY, Ohio — A bow hunter is shot by another hunter who mistook him for a squirrel, according to deputies.
The Clark County sheriff’s office received a call from a man who said his hunting partner shot another hunter in the head at Buck Creek State Park before 5:30 p.m. Thursday.
A male hunter was found suffering from buck pellet shots from a .20 gauge shotgun to his head and back.
He was transported to Miami Valley Hospital by medical helicopter.
After investigation, sheriff’s deputies identified the alleged shooter as Bobby J. Fawcett.
Fawcett was squirrel hunting with a friend when the incident happened.
Fawcett told investigators he saw an object moving in some thick underbrush and fired his weapon into it, striking a man who was bow-hunting for deer.
Fawcett said he and his hunting partner immediately called 911.
During the investigation, deputies smelled an odor of alcohol on Fawcett and tested his blood alcohol concentration. Authorities said the test revealed a .12 BAC level, which is over the legal limit to operate a motor vehicle.
Fawcett was arrested and charged with using weapons while intoxicated and negligent assault. His first court appearance in Clark County Municipal Court was scheduled for Friday.
The victim, who was not identified, was treated and released from the hospital late Thursday.