Thomas Zimmerman, 58, of Borden, Indiana, died on November 19, 2017 while hunting from a ladder-type tree stand on private property near Elizabeth in Harrison County. He was found unresponsive in his elevated stand about 6:40 p.m. and had to be lowered by first responders using a rope-and-pulley system before being pronounced dead.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement division determined Zimmerman sustained a close-range gunshot wound to the head. Forensic analysis and scene reconstruction indicated the firearm discharged unintentionally; investigators reported the mishap likely occurred while he was handling a primitive-type muzzleloader, possibly from the hammer catching on clothing or the weapon being dropped in the stand. Authorities ruled the death an accident and said no foul play was suspected.

The incident was cited as a reminder about following firearm safety and using safety harnesses when hunting from elevated stands. If anyone who hunted with Zimmerman or who has information about that evening can help clarify the sequence of events, please share what is known.