Mistaken for a squirrel: Iowa teen dies in a hunting trip; shot mistakenly by fellow hunter

A hunting trip turned tragic in Iowa after an accident claimed the life of 17-year-old teen when he was reportedly mistaken for a squirrel by a fellow hunter.

Carson Ryan, who was part of a hunting group targeting squirrels, was struck in the back of the head by gunfire from a member of his party. The incident occurred around 3 pm in rural Brighton, outside Iowa City, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

He was immediately rushed to the University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center in Iowa City, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Authorities said the case is under investigation by both the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

The Washington High School boys’ track and field team released a social media statement mourning the loss of their teammate. “Washington Boy's Track & Field team asks you keep Carson's Mom, family, classmates and teammates in your hearts as we navigate the devastating loss of Carson. Our hearts are broken,” the post read, accompanied by an image of Ryan in the team uniform.

In the wake of Ryan’s death, a GoFundMe campaign launched to support his family has raised over $50,000 as of Wednesday morning. The campaign described him as “a son, friend, and bright light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”