Ontario hunter fined $10K for shooting fellow hunter

An Ontario man who shot a fellow pheasant hunter has been fined $10,000 and stripped of his hunting licence for the next five years.

Donald Rodzik of Windsor pleaded guilty to careless use of a firearm in connection with the shooting incident, which occurred on Sept. 28, 2022 at the private Griffith Island Hunt Club in Georgian Bay.

According to a press release issued by Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, a conservation officer responded to the scene.

"The investigation found that while hunting pheasant from a stationary line, Rodzik discharged his firearm, striking another member of his hunting party in the lower extremities," the release said. "Rodzik failed to take reasonable consideration for the proximity and position of the other hunter when discharging his firearm."

The injured hunter was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Justice of the Peace Angela Renaud heard the case at the Ontario Court of Justice in Owen Sound on April 14. Along with the fine and licence suspension, Rodzik is required to retake the hunter education course.

"The Ontario government is safeguarding the public against unsafe and illegal hunting practices," the news release states.

To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line at 1-877-847-7667. People can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS.

More information about unsolved cases can be found here.