Ronald Allan Blank, 63, died after being fatally wounded while elk hunting with his adult son, Dan Blank, in the backcountry near Ten Sleep, Wyoming on October 6, 2021. The two were traversing steep terrain in Washakie County and, while scrambling over a rock face as daylight waned, a hunting rifle discharged. Ronald was struck high on the right side of his chest and suffered massive internal trauma and extreme blood loss.

Dan Blank rendered first aid, called for help, and helped guide rescuers across difficult roads and foot trails; responders reached the Cabin Spring area with Ten Sleep and Worland EMS and sheriff’s deputies, carried Ronald to a landing zone, and flew him to a Worland hospital where he succumbed during surgery. Public statements from the sheriff’s and coroner’s offices described the death as a hunting accident, named no outside suspect, and did not announce charges.

Does anyone have details about the weapon handling during that climb or witnessed the rescue that could clarify how the rifle discharged?