UPDATE: Man fatally shot while hunting in Manning

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A 23-year-old man died from a gunshot wound during a hunting trip early this morning, Clarendon County Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell confirmed.

Skylar Anthony Julian McKenzie was fatally injured while duck hunting in Manning. According to Lt. Charlotte McKee of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), two individuals were hunting together when a third member of their party arrived unexpectedly to join them. The victim, who was not anticipated by the other hunters, was mistaken for a deer and was shot with a shotgun.

The victim and the shooter were related, though the specifics of their relationship have not been disclosed.

The incident remains under investigation by SCDNR, and no details regarding potential charges are available at this time.

Lt. McKee emphasized the importance of hunter safety, including the critical need for hunters to properly identify their targets before shooting. She also highlighted the free hunter education classes offered by SCDNR, which are designed to promote safe hunting practices. More information on these classes can be found on the Education tab of the SCDNR website.

The Manning Times will provide updates as more information becomes available.