17-year-old ‘mistaken for a squirrel’ fatally shot while hunting, IA officials say
.png "Carson Ryan, 17, was fatally shot during a hunting trip in Brighton, Iowa.")
A 17-year-old boy died after Iowa officials say he was mistaken for a squirrel and shot in the head while hunting.
On Sept. 27, Carson Ryan was in rural Brighton with a hunting party when he was shot in the back of his head by another hunter, according to KWWL.
“[Ryan] was mistaken for a squirrel by a member of his hunting party and was struck in the back of the head,” a news release from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources said, according to the Des Moines Register.
Ryan was taken to a hospital where he died from his injuries, news outlets reported.
“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,” a GoFundMe page said.
Since news of his death came out, many have taken to social media to express grief.
“Last night’s vigil showed just how impactful Carson Ryan has been for so many people in our community. Our hearts are broken as we navigate the devastating loss of Carson,” a Facebook post by Washington Demons Boys Basketball said.
Multiple schools across southeastern Iowa shared posts in memory of Ryan and in support of his family. Many are asking students to wear orange and black to start the school week.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the shooting. It’s unclear if anyone was arrested or charged.
Brighton is about a 70-mile drive south from Cedar Rapids.
This story was originally published September 29, 2025 at 3:14 PM with the headline "17-year-old ‘mistaken for a squirrel’ fatally shot while hunting, IA officials say."
