AZ: Tragic Accident at UCYC Camp: Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Urges Firearm Safety After Fatal Shooting”
08/02/2024
Those involved told Law Enforcement they were from the Phoenix area but staying at the UCYC Camp in Prescott. The parties went to a secluded area of camp and were shooting and “hunting skunks”. When they got back to camp after sunset, one of them was standing by a vehicle while the victim stood across from him, and when trying to make sure their weapons were clear, the shooter was pointing his weapon across at the victim and after pulling the charging handle back several times, the shooter “thought” the weapon was empty and pulled the trigger firing a .22 caliber round into the abdomen of the victim.
In the early hours of Saturday, July 27th, YCSO Detectives were told the 22-year-old victim succumbed to his injuries and died after going through surgery. This case is still under investigation.
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office wishes to remind all responsible gun owners that they should seek proper instruction in firearms safety. They should understand the rules of firearms safety, including:
Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
Treat all guns as if they are loaded.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are on target and ready to shoot.
Be sure of your target and what’s around and behind your target.