News Release

Hunting accident claims Broward County teen

November 24, 2008
Contact:  Gabriella B. Ferraro, 772-215-9459

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers are investigating what appears to be a hunting accident, which claimed the life of a Broward County teenager. Seth D. Edge, 15, of West Park, died from a single gunshot wound to the head shortly before 7 a.m. Saturday.

The victim was duck hunting with his father and brothers on Lake Okeechobee in Glades County when his 13-year-old brother attempted to set his gun down. Witnesses said the gun fell and discharged, fatally injuring Seth, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

No charges have been filed.

The Glades County Sheriff's Office was among the first responders and assisted in the investigation.

In Florida, children 15 years and younger may hunt without a hunting license, as long as they are supervised by an adult. Children under 16 may hunt with a gun lawfully but must be under adult supervision at all times.

The FWC regularly schedules hunting safety classes in all Florida counties.

"We encourage all hunters, especially children to take the course," said FWC regional hunter safety administrator Lynne Hawk. "The course is free and satisfies the hunter education requirements of all other states and Canadian provinces that require hunter safety certification."

Everyone born on or after June 1, 1975, must pass an approved hunter safety course to be eligible to purchase a Florida hunting license.

More information is available online in the Hunter Safety area of MyFWC.com.