Hunter Accidentally Shot in Deer Stand Near Anderson, SC, Investigation Reveals Family Involvement
In a rare incident near Broadway Lake in Anderson County, South Carolina, a hunter was seriously injured after being struck by a stray bullet while in his deer stand on the evening of Saturday, October 18, 2024.
Law enforcement authorities from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene along the rural banks of Broadway Lake, where they found the 30-year-old hunter wounded.
Investigation and Findings from Authorities
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) took charge of the investigation due to the involvement of a firearm during hunting season. After thorough evidence collection and analysis, officials concluded that the bullet was neither fired by another hunter nor self-inflicted.
Detectives discovered that the firearm discharge originated from an adjacent property and identified a family member of the victim as responsible for the negligent shooting.
The family member had reportedly failed to employ a proper backstop when firing, resulting in the bullet traveling across property lines and hitting the hunter in the deer stand.
Outcome and Statements from the Sheriff’s Office
Following confessions and detailed investigation, the victim has opted not to press charges against the involved relative, according to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident’s location lies approximately 110 miles northwest of Columbia, native habitat for various deer species such as the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), which is commonly hunted during this season.
Wildlife and Hunting Context
- Deer stands are typically elevated platforms used by hunters to improve visibility and scent control, critical for hunting wary species like white-tailed deer.
- Safe firearm handling and clear backstops are essential to prevent accidents, particularly because rural areas near water bodies like Broadway Lake can be prone to stray bullets traveling longer distances due to less obstruction.
- October is a common month for deer hunting in South Carolina, coinciding with the deer rutting season, which alters animal behavior and movements significantly.
Previous Hunting-Related Incidents in the Region
This event follows other unfortunate hunting accidents in the Carolinas, including fatal and severe injury cases reported by law enforcement earlier:
- A hunting turf dispute resulting in multiple casualties in South Carolina on September 30, 2024.
- Discovery of human remains following investigations triggered by “unusual smells” in South Carolina, June 2025.
- A fatal hunting incident in the North Carolina mountains reported on November 21, 2023.
These incidents highlight the importance of precaution and awareness during hunting activities, not only regarding animal behavior but also in ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.
Additional reporting and sources from: Unusual shooting involved hunter in deer stand, SC cops say | Charlotte ObserverGo to XGo to FacebookEmail this person
