Rifle discharges as hunters attempted to cross fence in Loranger
A 33-year-old Hammond man died Friday afternoon as he and his hunting partner attempted to cross a wire fence in Loranger, according to a press release.
Joseph H. Stevens Jr. was killed instantly after being struck with a bullet fired from a .270 caliber bolt action rifle being carried by Stacey M. Trapp, 37, of Loranger, according to the release.
The men had been hunting together for about an hour when they decided to head for home, and as they approached the fence, Trapp walked in front of Stevens with his rifle slung on his right shoulder, the release states.
When Trapp squatted down to go under some bushes, the rifle went off and fatally struck Stevens, according to the release.
Trapp called 911 for help, and investigators do not suspect foul play, the release states.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents and deputies with the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office responded to the call about 2:30 p.m. near 55202 Hwy. 1062 in Loranger, the release states.
LDWF reminds all hunters to use basic hunting safety procedures when going to and from hunting locations, including having the gun on safe with no bullets or shells in the chamber.
