A Slippery Rock University student passed away early Saturday, Nov. 23 following an accident while out hunting.
Jacob Smith, a 19-year-old sophomore safety management major from Linesville, was out hunting with friends in Summit Township when he was fatally wounded by his own gun, according to the Meadville Tribune. Smith was unloading items from a hunting sled when his shotgun accidentally went off. He was shot in the abdomen, according to Crawford County coroner Scott Schell.
According to the Meadville Tribune, Conneaut Lake and Meadville ambulance services and Summit Township and Conneaut Lake volunteer fire departments were called to the scene to assist state police and officers from the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
Smith was transported to Meadville Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Schell ruled his death accidental.
In an e-mail sent from SRU Communication, President William Behre encouraged students who may be affected by Smith’s death to contact the counseling center at 724-738-2034. The counseling center is located in Rhoads Hall. He added that the Health Center, also located in Rhoads Hall, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can connect students to other resources. Student Support Services is also available at 724-738-2121.
“When tragedies like this occur, they may stir up troubling feelings,” Behre said in the e-mail. “The University is here to help.”
According to another e-mail sent this morning, visitations will be today (Nov. 26) from 3pm to 7pm. and tomorrow, Nov. 27 from 11am to 12pm at the Linesville First Baptist Church. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Nov. 27, which will also take place at the Linesville First Baptist Church.
Smith’s obituary can be viewed on the Meadville Tribune’s website.
