Sheriff IDs hunter fatally shot by older brother

RANDOLPH, Utah (AP) — Northern Utah authorities have identified a 49-year-old man who was fatally shot by his older brother during a hunting trip over the weekend.

Rich County sheriff’s officials say James Townsend of Weber County was killed Saturday.

Rich County Sheriff Dale Stacey said Townsend and his older brother were together on a four-wheeler and pursuing an antelope when Townsend apparently sat or kneeled a few feet in front of his older brother. Stacey said the older brother fired with a scope rifle and struck the younger one in the head.

Authorities say the case appears to be accidental, but will be forwarded to Rich County prosecutors to determine whether charges should be filed.

Rich County is located in the northeast corner of Utah, adjacent to Wyoming and Idaho.

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