Sweet Home, Ore. – A tragic accident occurred Saturday when a bullet fired by a hunter in the vicinity of a private property passed through a home and killed 54‑year‑old Robert Church. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that investigators believe the shot originated from a nearby hunter, though the shooter has not yet been identified.
Investigation details
Deputies responding to the scene discovered a partially dressed deer near the area where the shots were fired, according to Sheriff Michelle Duncan. The hunter left the scene shortly after the incident, and it remains unclear whether the individual was aware that Church had been hit.
Sheriff Duncan emphasized that investigators do not consider the shooting intentional. “We are asking the hunter to come forward so the family can receive answers and closure,” she said.
Family and community response
Robert Church leaves behind five young children. His daughter, Shy, described her father as “one of a kind” who “loved his children more than anything in the world.” Neighbors noted that the area is popular for hunting and urged all hunters to follow safety rules and be mindful of where they discharge firearms.
In response to the loss, Church’s family has launched an online fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses. The Sheriff’s Office has asked anyone with information about the incident to contact them directly.
Safety reminder for hunters
Local residents stressed the importance of responsible hunting practices, especially in regions where private homes are situated near hunting grounds. They encouraged hunters to verify their target and backstop before shooting, and to respect property boundaries to prevent future tragedies.
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case and is working with state wildlife officials to locate the individual responsible for the stray shot.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
