In Point Pleasant, West Virginia, the community is mourning after a tragic incident on Sunday, September 10. Wyatt Eaves-Nibert, a ten-year-old boy, was found dead due to a gunshot wound following a report of him missing during a hunting expedition.
Wyatt, a fifth-grade student at Roosevelt Elementary School in Mason County, had embarked on a hunting trip with his grandfather. After their lunch on Saturday, he took his .22 rifle into the woods alone, hoping to hunt squirrels. About an hour after Wyatt ventured into the forest, local authorities were informed about an ATV accident involving his grandfather in the vicinity. The elder man was attempting to locate Wyatt when the accident occurred and subsequently prompted an official search by authorities.
Wyatt’s family, who emphasized their knowledge and practice of firearm safety, have always maintained that Wyatt was well-acquainted with safety precautions. His mother, Adrienne Nibert, recollected the close relationship Wyatt shared with his grandfather. The two frequently went squirrel hunting together. On that fateful day, after their lunch was over, and the grandfather called for Wyatt, the boy was nowhere to be found.
Wyatt’s passing leaves behind devastated parents, siblings, grandparents, and other family members.
Details surrounding Wyatt’s death remain unclear. The State Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy. Further information, including whether there’s any suspicion of foul play and the exact cause of the gunshot wound, remains to be provided.