Tragic Hunting Accident: Virginia Man Dies After Bear Falls From Tree

A tragic hunting accident claimed the life of a 58-year-old man in Virginia after a bear fell from a tree following a gunshot. The incident occurred on December 9 in Lunenburg County when Lester C. Harvey and his hunting group encountered a bear during their expedition.

How It Happened

According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the group spotted a bear, which quickly climbed a tree. As they retreated from the base of the tree, one member of the party fired at the bear. The injured animal fell approximately 10 feet, landing on Harvey, who stood nearby.

Emergency services were called immediately, and first aid was administered at the scene. Harvey was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries four days later.

“The department is not currently seeking any charges related to this incident,” spokesperson Shelby Crouch confirmed, highlighting the accidental nature of the tragedy.

Remembering Lester C. Harvey

Harvey, a resident of Phoenix and a self-employed contractor, was described as a kind-hearted individual who loved the outdoors. His obituary shared that he was a devoted family man, leaving behind his wife, three sons, and two daughters.

Josh Harvey, one of his sons, reflected on the tragedy in a Facebook post, saying his father had been gravely injured doing what he loved most—hunting with friends.

Past Similar Incidents

This is not the first hunting accident involving falling bears. In 2018, a man in Alaska was critically injured when his partner shot a bear on a ridge, causing the animal and dislodged rocks to tumble down onto him.

A year later, a hunter in North Carolina was bitten and injured after a wounded bear fell from a tree. Both the hunter and the bear fell off a cliff during their struggle.

The Importance of Hunting Safety

This incident underscores the unpredictable dangers of hunting, particularly when dealing with large animals such as bears. Experts recommend maintaining a safe distance, ensuring clear lines of sight, and exercising caution during hunting expeditions.