By: Joseph T. Weah, Nimba D-9 TV Maryland County Reporter
Maryland, County, Liberia: – In a heartbreaking incident that underscores the perils of hunting, a 54-year-old man from Gortoken Karluway and Barrobo Statutory District, Maryland County, Liberia, has tragically died after accidentally shooting himself with his shotgun. The unfortunate accident occurred on September 6, 2024, during a hunting expedition that ended in disaster.
Benecesaw Teawea, a seasoned hunter with years of experience, embarked on a hunting trip with his 16-year-old son, Godtime Teewea. The two set out early in the day, aiming to hunt along the riverbanks of the area. The incident occurred two hours from their home, marking a significant distance from immediate medical assistance.
According to police reports, Teawea’s attempt to hunt was marred by a critical lapse in safety. During the expedition, Teawea mistook a cassava snake for a boa constrictor. In his eagerness to catch his prey, he laid down his single-barrel shotgun on the grass in what turned out to be an unsafe condition.
Godtime Teewea recounted that his father, having misidentified the snake, decided to abandon his pursuit and retrieve his shotgun. However, in a tragic series of events, Teawea picked up the weapon with its muzzle inadvertently pointed towards himself. The shotgun, which had its trigger already engaged, discharged and struck Teawea in the abdomen, inflicting severe injuries.
Despite being rushed to a local health facility in town, Benecesaw Teawea was pronounced dead upon arrival. The loss of this experienced hunter is a profound tragedy for his family and the local community in Barrobo, where he is a well-known and respected figure.
This incident highlights the critical importance of safety protocols when handling firearms, particularly in outdoor and potentially hazardous environments. To ensure the safety of all participants in hunting activities, the following precautions should be observed:
Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction: When handling a firearm, it is crucial to ensure that the muzzle is always pointed away from yourself and others. This simple rule can prevent accidental injuries.
Engage the Safety Mechanism: Always engage the safety mechanism of your firearm when it is not in use. This precaution helps to prevent accidental discharge.
Verify the State of the Weapon: Before picking up or handling a firearm, confirm that it is unloaded and that the trigger is not engaged.
Be Cautious When Leaving a Weapon Unattended: Never leave a loaded firearm unattended. Always ensure that your weapon is secured and that the safety measures are in place.
Avoid Handling Firearms Under Stress: When pursuing a game or in a situation of heightened excitement, avoid making hasty decisions that could compromise safety. Take the time to handle your firearm carefully and responsibly.
Seek Immediate Medical Help for Injuries: In the event of an accident, seek medical assistance immediately. Prompt action can be critical in saving lives and reducing the severity of injuries.
The police are continuing their investigation into the incident to determine any further details that might have contributed to this tragic event. The family and community are mourning the loss of Benecesaw Teawea, and local authorities are working to ensure that such incidents are thoroughly examined to prevent future occurrences.
The community of Gortoken Karluway and Barrobo Statutory District is urged to adhere to these safety practices and to ensure that all hunting activities are conducted with the utmost caution and respect for safety regulations.
Edited & Posted by: Edmund C. Gbarwee, Nimba D-9 TV Public Health Reporter, ceo@onenimbahouse.com, nimbad9tv2018@gmail.com, +231778070604