CACHE COUNTY, Utah -- A 10-year-old boy is dead after a hunting accident in Cache County Saturday night.
Officials have identified the boy as Zachary Woodruff of Smithfield, Utah.
The incident was reported at 7:29 p.m. in an area about one mile southeast of Red Spur, which is the far southeast corner of the forest service area of Cache County. A Cache Valley boy was sitting on the floorboard of four wheeler trying to stay warm and out of the wind when a hunting companion pulled next him and got off his four wheeler, according to a press release from Cache County Sheriff's Office.
The hunting companion was removing his rifle from the front of his four wheeler when the gun went off and struck the victim, the release states.
Life Flight was called as well as the sheriff's office, Cache County Search and Rescue and Logan City Paramedics were en route.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by a Life Flight crew.
No charges are pending at this time as it appears to be an accident.
The name of boy has not been released pending notification of family, friends and school authorities.
“As you can imagine the family is devastated,” said Chief Deputy Matt Bilodeau. “During an outing meant to create memories, enjoy nature, and bring family and friends closer, to have something like this happen is unimaginable. Please pray for their family.”
