Hunter dies after fall in Harford County

A 55-year-old man hunting deer in Harford County died Thursday after falling from his tree stand, Maryland Natural Resources Police said.

Paul J. Kemper of York, Pa., was bow hunting for deer when he fell from the stand, which was about 25 feet off the ground. His hunting companion, Steven E. Myers, also of York, found him. Kemper had an unattached tree stand safety harness near him when his body was discovered. NRP’s Special Operations Division will continue to investigate the accident.

NRP investigated 12 hunting accidents during fiscal 2010 and 14 hunting accidents during fiscal 2009. Falls from tree stands made up half the accidents during both years. NRP official say hunters should read, understand and practice manufacturers’ recommendations before using any climbing equipment or tree stands. Hunters should always use a full body harness as part of the overall safety restraint system during tree stand use, NRP officials said. A guide from NRP offers more information.