CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The death investigation of a young nurse in Kenedy County near the Padre Island National Seashore has become the first reported death during the hunting season for the state.
While the details of what led to 23-year-old Hailey Jasso's death are still unclear, Texas Parks and Wildlife, along with local fire experts remind residents of how important hunting safety is.
"Always keep the muzzle of your gun pointed in a safe direction. Be aware of what is in front of you and beyond your target." said TPWD Game Warden Ryan Cobb.
Annaville Fire Department Cpt. Charles Harris said that paying attention to the bullet casings that fall on the ground after a shot is crucial to preventing wildfires.
"Especially when the humidity gets lower, it makes it a little easier after a shot. If the conditions are right it can easily start a fire," he said.
Harris said that motor vehicles are also a point of danger for hunters if they're not careful.
"ATV's, Gators, stuff like that, you know, you've got a little bit more taller grass and brush. Being parked especially in a certain spot, you know, for extended period of time could start a fire," he said.
Harris said that even small fires can become big problems when assisted by mother nature.
"The wind, like I said, it can get out of hand pretty quick, especially when it gets wind-driven. And then fire itself creates its own type of weather too if it gets big enough," he said.
