South Carolina Boy, 13, Fatally Shot by Best Friend in Hunting Accident

While the investigation is ongoing, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is calling the boy's death an "accident"

A 13-year-old boy died after he was shot in a hunting accident in South Carolina on Sunday, authorities said.

The victim, identified by family as Cameron Connor, was squirrel hunting on private land with a friend when one boy shot the other, according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

On Monday, the agency said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that it was continuing to investigate the Orangeburg County shooting, calling the incident a  "hunting accident.”

“This is an ongoing investigation, and we will update as we’re able,” the statement reads. “Our thoughts are with the boy’s family and loved ones.”

The Orangeburg County Coroner's Office is conducting an autopsy as well as toxicology tests, according to USA Today. A cause of death has not been made public as of Wednesday.

The boy’s mother, Penny Wagers Connor, told USA Today that her son and his best friend, who is the same age as Cameron, were hunting ducks when the tragedy occurred. She also said the boys were eighth grade students at Dorchester Academy in St. George, S.C., where both boys played for the football and baseball teams.

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In an emotional statement posted to Facebook on Tuesday, Penny grieved her son and thanked the community for their support.

"As a parent, this is one of the most difficult tragedies to navigate and process,” she wrote. “Please hold your children extra tight and tell them you love them.”

“His presence made an impact on so many people,” she added. “Son, I'll miss you every single day and until we meet again, I love you with all of my heart and soul.”

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