In a concerning incident during Wisconsin’s youth turkey hunting season, a three-year-old boy accidentally injured two individuals, including another child, when he discharged a shotgun under parental supervision. The event took place on April 12 at the Honey Creek Wildlife Area in Burlington, where two groups were engaged in the 2026 turkey hunt.
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According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the young shooter and his 34-year-old parent observed movement in the woods that appeared to be a turkey. Following this, the parent reportedly knelt to assist the toddler in aiming and firing a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun at the supposed target. Unfortunately, the pellets struck a 7-year-old mentee and his adult mentor, resulting in injuries to both their heads, backs, and hands.
Investigations into the occurrence are still ongoing, but updates on the victims’ health have surfaced. Reports from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel indicate that while the adult was swiftly released from the hospital after treatment, the young child required a two-day stay for non-life-threatening injuries to his head before being discharged.
Renee Thok, the hunter education administrator for the Department of Natural Resources, emphasised the importance of safety in hunting, particularly following this incident. “This is a reminder that you can’t be complacent about safety,” she remarked. She further expressed her hopes that the incident would not discourage the affected juveniles or others from participating in hunting activities in the future. “I’m just glad everyone will be okay,” she concluded.
Hunting regulations in Wisconsin have evolved over the years, notably under former Governor Scott Walker, who eliminated the minimum age limit for hunting in 2017. This change allows parents or adult guardians to decide when a child is ready to engage in hunting with proper oversight. However, it brings with it additional responsibilities regarding safety and supervision.
Under current legislation, all hunters born after January 1, 1973, are required to complete a state-certified hunter education course to mentor others. Nevertheless, it has been noted that the adult involved in this incident was exempt from this requirement due to military training previously undertaken.
Disturbingly, this incident marks a significant moment in hunting history within the state. It represents not only the youngest shooter but also the youngest victim recorded in hunting-related incidents since 2007. Prior to this event, the youngest recorded case involved a nine-year-old boy who accidentally shot a 48-year-old man during a mourning dove hunt in 2012.
The Department of Natural Resources, alongside local authorities, continues to investigate the specific circumstances surrounding this incident to determine if any legal action will be considered. The district attorney is expected to assess whether charges are warranted in this case.
As families prepare for future hunting seasons, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with firearms and outdoor activities, particularly when children are involved. Safety measures, education, and vigilance are essential components in ensuring that all participants can engage in hunting safely.
Ultimately, this incident not only highlights the potential hazards in hunting but also underscores the necessity for awareness and responsibility among adult guardians when introducing children to such activities.