Hunter Charged After Shooting Woman He Mistook for a Deer, Authorities Say

A New York hunter has been charged after shooting a woman he said he mistook for a deer during a weekend outing in rural Yates County, according to state environmental officials.

The incident occurred late Saturday afternoon near Italy Hill Road, where the victim, a 34‑year‑old local resident, was walking on her property at the edge of a wooded area. Investigators said the hunter, a 61‑year‑old man from a neighboring town, fired a single round from a high‑powered rifle after seeing movement in the brush and assuming it was a deer.

The woman was struck in the torso and collapsed. A family member heard the shot and called 911. Emergency responders transported her to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, where she underwent surgery and remained in serious but stable condition Sunday.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) said the hunter admitted he did not positively identify his target before firing — a violation of state hunting law and one of the most common causes of accidental shootings during deer season. “You must know exactly what you are shooting at,” a DEC spokesperson said. “This incident was entirely preventable.”

Officials said the hunter was shooting during legal hours but was positioned too close to a residential area and did not have a clear line of sight. Alcohol was not believed to be involved.

He was charged with second‑degree assault, reckless endangerment, and hunting without due caution, and his hunting privileges were suspended pending further review. Additional charges may be considered once the investigation is complete.

Neighbors told reporters the area has long been a point of tension between hunters and homeowners. “People walk their dogs, kids play outside — it’s not deep wilderness,” one resident said. “You can’t just shoot at rustling leaves and hope it’s a deer.”

DEC officials urged hunters to follow basic safety rules as deer season continues, including identifying targets, knowing what lies beyond them, and avoiding shots toward homes or trails. “This is exactly the kind of tragedy we work to prevent every year,” the spokesperson said.

The investigation remains ongoing.