An Iowa teenager has tragically lost his life after being 'mistaken for a squirrel' during a hunting trip over the weekend.
Authorities said 17-year-old Carson Ryan was 'struck in the back of the head' by another hunter at around 3pm local time on Saturday (September 27) in Brighton, which is roughly 12 miles from Des Moines.
Carson was rushed from the rural surroundings to UI Health Care Medical Center, where he tragically later died from his injuries.
Washington High School, where Carson was a senior, held a vigil on Sunday (September 28) to pay their respects to the student who was also a member of the varsity football team.
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As per the Southeast Iowa Union, assistant football coach Nic Williams said at the vigil: "Carson was a fierce competitor in everything he did. He loved fishing. He loved being with his friends. But more importantly, Carson was a person of incredible faith.
"His smile and his laugh were contagious. He was loved by so many people: his mom, Heidi, his family and his friends and his teammates, his teachers and coaches and anyone who just got to spend a second with him."
Williams added: "I don’t think there is anybody in here that can deny what kind of person Carson was. If Carson had a bad day, I don’t think anybody ever knew."
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A GoFundMe has also been set up by Washington resident Kelsie Wheeler to help support the teenager's 'loved ones'. So far, over $53,000 has been raised.
Wheeler, who is seemingly a friend of Carson's mother, Heidi, said: "Our dear friend, Heidi, is facing an unimaginable tragedy. Her beloved son, Carson, was taken far too soon in a tragic accident. No parent should ever have to experience such a heartbreaking loss, and our hearts are broken alongside hers.
"Carson was a son, friend, and bright light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, humor, and genuine spirit touched countless lives, and his loss leaves an immeasurable void."
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Many school districts have mourned the teenager's death and have urged their teams to wear Washington High’s black-and-orange team colors in the coming games to pay their respects.
Among those to pay their respects were the Washington Demons Boys Track & Field, who penned on Facebook: "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."
An investigation into Carson's death remains ongoing.
UNILAD has contacted the Washington County Sheriff's Office for comment.
Callum Jones