Deputies Investigating Death of Hunter in Harrison County

HARRISON COUNTY — Harrison County deputies are investigating the death of Benjamin Randell Huffman, 53, of Hallsville. It occurred Friday morning in southwest Harrison County. KETK reports that according to Investigator Jay Webb, just before 6:15, authorities were dispatched to Quail Lane and Willie Smith Road on reports of a shooting. When deputies and game wardens arrived at the scene, they found a body on the ground below a deer stand. The witness claims he and Huffman were hunting when the accident occurred. Allegedly, the witness climbed up a stand ladder and turned around to receive a gun. According to the witness, when Huffman handled the rifle, with the barrel facing himself, the rifle discharged a bullet.

The witness told authorities he went for help after not finding his phone. He then made contact with someone on Quail Lane who notified deputies. Judge Mike Smith pronounced Huffman dead at the scene. Deputies are taking statements, and the incident will be referred to a Harrison County Grand Jury.