SAGUACHE COUNTY – An Arizona man hunting near the Gunnison County line in the Blue Park area of Saguache County died last week when a 17-year-old female traveling with his hunting party accidentally discharged her gun while pursuing an elk.

Saguache County Sheriff Dan Warwick reported the incident Monday, noting that David Barter, 42, was wounded in the left side and shoulder. 

Gunnison County dispatch notified the Saguache Sheriff’s Office of the shooting at 1:15 p.m. last Thursday, Warwick said. Gunnison County also dispatched an ambulance to the scene. Emergency medical personnel kept up life-saving efforts until the ambulance reached Highway 114, when all attempts to revive Barter were discontinued.

Saguache County Coroner Tom Perrin was then summoned and confirmed Barter’s death.

Officers from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Division had multiple officers at the scene, Warwick reported, who assisted in the investigation and rendered support.

The shooting is still under investigation and a report will be filed with the district attorney. The DA will decide if charges will be filed.