ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — A child who died following a tragic hunting accident on Friday morning has been identified. On Saturday, his father said he hopes even in his passing, he can save the lives of many children.
Orangeburg County Coroner Samuetta Marshall said six-year-old Avery Davis of Orangeburg died at Prisma Health Richland Hospital as a result of a gunshot wound. A spokesperson for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources said the child was shot accidentally during a deer hunting trip near the Calhoun County line in the area of Whisperwood Road.
The state agency is investigating the incident but hasn't shared additional information regarding how the shooting occurred. In a statement on Saturday, the Department of Natural Resources said its thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the child.
In a statement, Davis's father expressed gratitude to the community that had prayed for his son since the incident. He described the boy as having a "bright soul and big heart."
His father said the child was also an organ donor.
"I'm honored that his legacy can live on through others," he said in his statement. "I couldn't be prouder of my son, and rest assured he will never be forgotten."