6-Year-Old Boy Shot and Killed in Hunting Accident: 'He Will Never Be Forgotten,' Says Dad

While an investigation is ongoing, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is calling the incident an "accident"

A 6-year-old boy died after he was shot in a hunting accident in South Carolina on Friday, officials said.

The victim, identified by his father as Avery Davis, was in an "elevated stand and appears to have been struck by a stray shotgun pellet from a shooter on the ground," according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

On Monday, the agency said in their statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, that they were continuing to investigate the Orangeburg County shooting, calling the incident an "accident."

"Our sympathy remains with the child's family and loved ones," their statement continued.

The Orangeburg County Coroner said Avery died of a gunshot wound to the side of his head, local NBC affiliate WIS-TV reported. PEOPLE could not immediately reach the coroner's office for comment.

Related: Father Recalls Losing Son, 15, in Accidental Shooting at Sleepover: 'I Begged God Not to Take Him'

According to WIS-TV and USA Today, the stray bullet was fired by a 17-year-old. It wasn't immediately clear if the teen would face any charges, per reports.

The department did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

Related: Dog Shoots and Kills His Owner, 32, in Freak Hunting Accident, Kansas Authorities Say

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Jeremy, Avery's father, said in an emotional statement posted to Facebook that he was at "a loss" for words and couldn't "process" the tragedy.

"There is so much to say about this bright soul and big heart but I don't know where to begin. Everyone that knew this boy of mine loved him," he added. "He was a live wire that was known all across the country for his silly ways and love of the outdoors. He definitely got his money worth out of his 6 short years on earth."

Related: Illinois Man Dies After Being Shot in the Face While Hunting with Group of Friends

Following his death, teachers at Avery's elementary school remembered the little outdoorsman by dressing in camouflage in his honor, per WIS-TV. The school also had grief counselors.

Jeremy noted in his post that his son's legacy "can live on through others" as an organ donor. According to WIS-TV, Avery's organs will now be able to help the lives of five people.

"I couldn't be prouder of my son and rest assured he will never be forgotten," he continued.

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