Avery Davis: South Carolina boy, 6, tragically dies after being shot in a hunting accident by 17-year-old
ORANGEBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA: A six-year-old boy tragically lost his life after he was shot in a hunting accident in South Carolina on Friday, November 24, officials have said. The victim, who is identified by his father as Avery Davis, was in an "elevated stand and appears to have been struck by a stray shotgun pellet from a shooter on the ground," according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
The agency said in a statement on X on Monday, November 27, that they were continuing to investigate the Orangeburg County shooting, calling the incident an "accident."
"Our sympathy remains with the child's family and loved ones," their statement continued.
We continue to investigate the death of a 6-year-old boy killed in a hunting accident Friday morning in Orangeburg County. Though the investigation is still active, we have determined that this was an accident. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/aKD3p1ZyYw
— S.C. Dept. of Natural Resources (@SCDNR) November 27, 2023
Who shot Avery Davis?
The Orangeburg County Coroner said Avery died of a gunshot wound to the side of his head, local NBC affiliate WIS-TV reports. According to WIS-TV and USA Today, the stray bullet was fired by a 17-year-old. It is not clear as of now if the teen would face any charges, per reports.
Avery Davis' father shares an emotional post after his son's death
Jeremy, Avery's father, said in an emotional statement posted to Facebook that he was at "a loss" for words and couldn't "process" the tragedy.
"There is so much to say about this bright soul and big heart but I don't know where to begin. Everyone that knew this boy of mine loved him," he said, adding "He was a live wire that was known all across the country for his silly ways and love of the outdoors. He definitely got his money worth out of his 6 short years on earth."
Following his death, teachers at Avery's elementary school remembered the little outdoorsman by dressing in camouflage in his honor, per WIS-TV. The school also had grief counselors.
“Avery was just the brightest little light. He was the bubbliest little boy with the best smile, fun loving, just all boy, loved to be with his friends, loved sports, and he was happiest in the woods,” Avery’s first-grade teacher Francie Daniel told WIS. On Monday, November 27, Avery's family took his body to a local operating room to have his organs removed so they could be donated, the outlet reported.
"Avery is an organ donor and we are praying that he can save as many children as possible and I'm honored that his legacy can live on through others. I couldn't be prouder of my son and rest assured he will never be forgotten. He was one of the toughest houndsmen, fisherman, outdoorsman, and athlete that I've ever known," the father said of his son.