update on tragic hunting death

[knucklehead]

Martin Farmer Sentenced In Shooting (from KELO news HSOforum)

A farmer from Martin has been sentenced to 30 days in jail for an accidental shooting that killed a Custer man in December. A magistrate judge handed down the sentence to Brad Johnson, who also must serve a year on probation and provide 200 hours of community service.

On December 3rd, Johnson used his rifle to shoot twice at what he thought were geese feeding on his millet crop. They actually were decoys that concealed Jay Torgerson and his hunting companion.

One of Johnson's shots hit Torgerson in the head. He died two days later.

The prosecutor says the sentence was a reasonable punishment in a difficult, tragic case and that the shooting did not fit a manslaughter charge.

Torgerson's mother, Carol Torgerson, says the tragedy should be an enduring reminder of the need for responsible gun handling.

Johnson will serve his jail time in Winner.

[big drift]

Familys prayers go out to all involved.

[chasinredeyes]

That is an absolutely horrible tragedy. Very sorry for the family and community.

That instance should almost completely discourage attempts that some snow goose hunters have towards allowing rifles to be used in the spring conservation season. That is exactly what could and would happen.

I have sat amongst decoy spreads over the years and am always extremely nervous when any vehicle stops on a nearby roadway to check us out. I immediately stand up or make movement to acknowledge the fact that these birds are decoys. You never can be too careful.