Father of 5 Dies After Bear Shot by Fellow Hunter Falls on Him: ‘Dad Was Doing What He Loved Most’

According to wildlife officials, 58-year-old Lester C. Harvey was hunting when a black bear was shot, fell from a tree, and then hit him.

A Virginia man passed away days after a bear, shot by another hunter, collapsed on him, according to wildlife authorities.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources reported that Lester C. Harvey, 58, was part of a group of hunters when a black bear fell from a tree and struck him at approximately 9:50 a.m. local time on Monday, Dec. 9, as per USA Today.

Wildlife officials report that the group drove the bear into a tree, and as they moved away from its base, one of the hunters fired at the bear, which subsequently fell on Harvey, who was approximately 10 feet from the tree’s bottom, as stated by USA Today and The Ledger-Enquirer.

A representative from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources stated they are “not actively pursuing any charges concerning this incident,” as reported by CBS affiliate WTVR.

According to CBS News, one of the hunters tried to provide first aid to Harvey prior to his transfer to two separate hospitals. Nonetheless, he passed away in the hospital on Friday, December 13.

In his obituary, Harvey was characterized as “a friend to everyone” who “never encountered a stranger,” and he was also recalled as “an enthusiastic lover of nature.”

His wife, April McAllister Harvey, and their five children survive him.

“Dad was engaged in his greatest passion,” son Josh noted in a social media tribute that was posted while his dad remained in the hospital.

Following his father’s passing, Josh referred to Harvey as his “best friend” and the “greatest dad ever.”

“I adore you dad,” he penned. “We shared wonderful moments… I am incredibly grateful for the memories we created and everything you taught me; I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you.”

Daughter Lindsey likewise expressed some poignant thoughts.

“My father was the most diligent worker I know.” He was either employed or pursuing game. The ONLY instance he skipped work was for hunting…“I’m shattered in ways I never realized I could be,” she posted on Facebook. “Kindly offer your prayers for us.”

Harvey’s memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 19, as stated in his obituary.