Dog Probably Responsible for Shotgun Blast that Injured Owner

Tillamook man injured after unattended shotgun discharges in boat.

Photo: Oregon State Police

(TILLAMOOK, Ore.) - Police say a Tillamook-area man was injured Saturday morning while duck hunting when his shotgun discharged after it may have been contacted by his dog and struck him in the leg as he was outside his boat.

Oregon State Police Sergeant Todd Hoodenpyl, says 23-year old Matthew Markum and his brother were duck hunting at Tillamook Bay at approximately 7:30 AM when the incident took place.

They were near Bay City, using an 11-foot open aluminum boat to go from the land to their decoys. The men were accompanied by their 3-year old male Yellow Labrador.

Hoodenpyl says the shotgun blast happened while both hunters were outside of the boat, the dog and Matthew's loaded 12 gauge shotgun were inside the boat. The shotgun round put a hole in the left side of the boat and struck Matthew Markum's leg.

Hoodenpyl says Markum's brother immediately transported him in the boat to the bank where medical attention was provided by Tillamook Ambulance. The injured hunter was transported to Tillamook County General Hospital and eventually transferred to Emanuel Hospital for further treatment.

Sergeant Hoodenpyl noticed while securing the shotgun that the safety was in the off position, something which is an important reminder to anyone transporting or carrying a loaded weapon.

"Hunting accidents can be prevented by following safety guidelines. This includes always keeping the firearm's safety on when not using the firearm," said Hoodenpyl.