Police investigate after a hunter is shot in the face during turkey season in Stewart State Forest; suspect arrested, no ongoing threat.
Incident Overview
On the morning of May 13, 2025, a turkey hunting trip in Stewart State Forest, located in the town of New Windsor, Orange County, New York, turned into a serious emergency. Around 11:00 a.m., a male hunter called 911 to report that he had been shot in the face with birdshot from a shotgun by another person while hunting. The shooter was unknown to the victim at the time of the call.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene. Due to the severity of his injuries, the victim was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center. Hospital officials have listed him in stable condition.
Law Enforcement and Emergency Response
The New York State Police are leading the investigation into the shooting. They were joined at the scene by a large team of agencies, including the New York State Forest Rangers, Town of New Windsor Police Department, Town of Blooming Grove Police Department, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (ENCON), Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Village of Maybrook Police Department, Town of Montgomery Police Department, Town of Woodbury Police Department, Town of Newburgh Police Department, New Windsor EMS, and Orange County 911.
Authorities set up a staging area and used helicopters, K9 units, and all-terrain vehicles to search the forest and secure the area. The quick and coordinated response helped ensure the safety of other people in the forest and allowed medical teams to reach the victim as fast as possible.
Suspect in Custody, No Ongoing Threat
After several hours of searching and investigation, police identified and arrested a suspect. As of the latest official statements, the suspect is in custody. Law enforcement has assured the public that there is no ongoing threat, and the area is safe.
The names of the victim and the suspect have not been released. Police have not yet said whether the shooting was accidental or intentional, and the relationship between the two individuals is still under investigation.
Background: Stewart State Forest and Turkey Hunting
Stewart State Forest is a 6,700-acre public forest in Orange County, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and hunting. Each spring, the forest attracts hunters during New York’s turkey hunting season, which runs from May 1 to May 31.
New York State has strict hunting regulations to keep hunters and the public safe. Hunters must have a valid license and a turkey hunting permit. The Department of Environmental Conservation encourages hunters to wear bright colors, always identify their target, and follow all safety rules to prevent accidents.
Investigation Continues
The New York State Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) in Montgomery at (845) 344-5300. The investigation is ongoing, and more details may be released as police learn more about what happened.
This incident is a reminder of the importance of safety and awareness while hunting. Stewart State Forest remains open, and officials continue to encourage safe and responsible outdoor recreation.
