A man is dead after a freak hunting accident in Kentucky.
Jared Hausfeld, 37, was hunting alone in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky on October 21 when he shot a deer. He tracked the deer to where it was bedded down, and believed the deer was already dead. However, when he approached the animal, the deer made a sudden movement, startling Hausfeld and causing him to accidentally stab himself in the leg with a large hunting knife.
According to the Anderson County coroner, Hausfeld died, presumably from blood loss, before family members found him. Around 2:30 PM Saturday, authorities received a "fatal hunting incidence notification."
Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife officials said they would like to take this time to remind people of important hunting safety tips.
Wildlife Conservation Officer James Brace told KKTV that many hunting accidents can be prevented by thoroughly checking your equipment.
"Most people stop their hunting when hunting season is done and they don't even worry about it until next season," Brace said.
Taking your weapons to the range to practice in the off-season and becoming more familiar with them is just as vital to a successful and safe hunt as taking a shot at an actual animal.
Just as important as practicing and being familiar with your equipment is to tell family members and friends where you are hunting, and how long you might be gone. If you plan to be out of cell service for an extended period of time, a satellite communication device should be added to your kit. Most of these devices have an easy-to-use SOS button that can alert emergency services to your location.
"Hunting is fun, but let's be safe about it," Brace told KKTV. "You can never be too safe."
According to his obituary, Hausfeld was a loving husband and a father to three sons, who he had been teaching to hunt and fish.
