Iowa Man Fatally Shot on Coyote Hunt

by
posted on October 10, 2023
Mainiowa DNR Logo

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is investigating a fatal hunting incident that occurred Sunday night in northern Hardin County.

An Alden man was hunting coyotes with friends on private land approximately two miles north of town. The hunters were separated by several hundred yards when, around 8 p.m., the 53-year old was struck by a single rifle shot. The incident remains under investigation.

The man was transported to Hansen Family Hospital in Iowa Falls, where he was pronounced dead. The State Medical Examiner’s office will be conducting an autopsy as part of the investigation.

On a night hunt for coyotes, hunters generally utilize thermal or night-vision devices to find and eliminate their prey. While this cutting-edge technology has made seeing at night easier than ever before, it can still make identifying targets, what is behind a target, and the locations of hunting partners more difficult to ascertain than it would be in the daylight. As such, it is often advisable to make a plan before hitting the field with friends, or agreeing to remain in static positions. It is also crucial to spend more time considering the backdrop of your target, and who or what could lay beyond, before firing. All that said, it is still unclear what exactly happened in this case and how it could have been avoided, as information about the incident is still forthcoming.

“We stress the importance of identifying your target before taking a shot, and that’s even more important when hunting at night and using thermal technology,” said Captain Matt Bruner, with the Iowa DNR’s Law Enforcement Bureau. “The same can be said about the importance of the hunting plan, especially at night, and following that plan when in the field.”

The Iowa DNR and the Hardin County Sheriff’s office responded to the incident last night and officers were on scene again early Monday morning. For more on the story, check back here or on iowadnr.gov.

Latest

Mexican Wolf Lede
Mexican Wolf Lede

Hefty Reward Offered in Mexican Wolf Case

A federally protected Mexican wolf was found dead northwest of Flagstaff, Ariz., on Nov. 7. The incident is under investigation, and a reward of up to $103,500 is available for information that leads to successful prosecution in the case.

Head to Head: 350 Legend vs. 400 Legend

Between the 350 Legend and 400 Legend, which cartridge makes the more sensible choice for hunters, or are the differences negligible? We delve deeper.

Recipe: Savory Stuffed Venison Loin

Brad Fenson whips up a savory venison loin, the perfect use for the thick rear of any backstraps harvested this fall.

Early Holiday Deals for Hunters

It’s the time of year when homes fill with the aroma of turkey fresh out of the oven, nostalgic conversations over pecan pie and the annual “When is it too early to put up holiday decorations” debate. The warmth is palpable, but seasoned gifters understand it signals the time is now to shop for family and loved ones.

Is Lead Ammo Dead?

The traditional projectile has been under attack of late.

#SundayGunday: Remington 22 Golden Hunter

This week on #SundayGunday, we're taking a look at 22 Golden Hunter, from Remington.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.