An American teenager has died after he was fatally shot by a member of his hunting group who mistook him for a squirrel, authorities have said.
According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Carson Ryan, 17, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the back of the head while on a hunting trip in the Brighton area of the state.
A statement issued by the department said Mr Ryan "was mistaken for a squirrel by a member of his hunting party".
The 17-year-old was quickly rushed to UI Health Care Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Carson Ryan, 17, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the back of the head while on a hunting trip
|GOFUNDME
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The Washington County Sheriff's Office responded to the shooting alongside the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
The authorities have said the 17-year-old's death is currently being investigated, but described it as an "accidental shooting".
Mr Ryan was an Iowa varsity American football player for Washington High School and competed in the school's basketball and track-and-field teams.
Tributes have poured in for the 17-year-old following the tragedy and a vigil was held at his school on Sunday.
Mr Ryan was an Iowa varsity American football player for Washington High School
|WASHINGTON DEMONS BOYS TRACK & FIELD TEAM
The assistant coach for his football team Nic Williams described the teenager as a "fierce competitor in everything he did".
Mr Williams added: “He loved fishing. He loved being with his friends. But more importantly, Carson was a person of incredible faith.
"He was loved by so many people; his mom, Heidi, his family and his friends and his teammates, his teachers and coaches and anyone who just got to spend a second with him.”
Around a dozen nearby schools have taken to social media to pay their respects to the teenager, asking their students and staff to wear black and orange colours to honour Mr Ryan.
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The Washington Demons Boys Track & Field team posted on social media, asking the public to "keep Carson's Mom, family, classmates and teammates in your hearts as we navigate the devastating loss of Carson".
The team added that their "hearts are broken" by his death.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by his loved ones, which has since raised more than $56,000 (£41,655).
The organiser said: "Carson was a son, friend, and bright light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by his loved ones, which has since raised more than $56,000
|GOFUNDME
"His kindness, humour, and genuine spirit touched countless lives, and his loss leaves an immeasurable void.
"During this difficult time, we are raising funds to support Carson’s family as they navigate the unimaginable challenges of loss.
"These donations will go directly toward easing the financial burden of memorial expenses and helping his loved ones find some peace and stability as they grieve."
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