Key Takeaways:
- Kate Aynsley, an experienced hunter, died in a "terrible accident" while hunting with her partner in 2023.
- The coroner’s investigation found that Aynsley’s death was accidental, likely caused by her rifle discharging when she slipped and fell on a steep, slippery slope.
- The investigation highlighted the importance of following basic firearms safety rules, particularly when navigating challenging terrain.
- Aynsley was a well-respected member of the hunting community, known for mentoring women hunters and contributing to training programs.
- The coroner’s ruling emphasized the need for hunters to understand their firearm’s safety mechanisms and to take extra precautions when handling firearms in difficult environments.
Introduction to the Incident
The incident occurred in 2023, when Kate Aynsley and her partner, Fagg, set out on a hunting trip in a block of land they had accessed through a Department of Conservation ballot. The pair were experienced hunters, equipped with rifles, GPS devices, and their gun dogs. They initially hunted together but separated to cover more ground, a common practice between them. Tragically, Aynsley’s life was cut short in a "terrible accident" that has been ruled as accidental by the coroner.
The Events Leading Up to the Accident
On the day of the incident, Aynsley and Fagg separated to hunt in different areas. Aynsley radioed Fagg to inform him that a buck deer was barking at her from across a creek, and she decided to sit and wait to see what the deer would do. Approximately 20 minutes later, Fagg heard a single shot, but Aynsley did not respond to his radio calls. Fagg searched the area for 45 minutes, then moved uphill, thinking that Aynsley might be tracking a wounded deer. When he found no sign of her, he returned to the creek and called for her dog, Mia, which led him to Aynsley’s body.
The Investigation and Findings
The police investigation into Aynsley’s death found that her rifle, a Marlin lever-action rifle, had been fired from an estimated distance of seven centimeters, ruling out intentional self-harm. The coroner, Borrowdale, noted that there was no evidence of third-party involvement and that the death was likely caused by an accidental discharge of the rifle. The investigation also revealed that the rifle had no mechanical faults and could not fire unless the safety was off. However, with the safety off, the weapon could discharge if the trigger were pressed during a fall or if the exposed hammer received a sharp knock.
Plausible Scenarios and Contributing Factors
The police and independent specialists from the Mountain Safety Council (MSC) presented several plausible scenarios, all of which involved Aynsley preparing to shoot a deer and accidentally discharging the rifle. The MSC report noted that factors such as the steep, uneven slope, slippery beech litter underfoot, and abundant branches and roots presented a significant trip and slip hazard. Additionally, Aynsley’s troublesome knee, which had required surgery, may have contributed to her loss of balance. The report also highlighted that Aynsley’s left-handedness and the right-side safety button on the rifle may have reduced her control when switching between safe and fire positions.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Coroner Borrowdale emphasized that no definitive sequence of events could be established, but she was satisfied that the death was accidental. She used the ruling to urge hunters to strictly follow the seven basic firearms safety rules, particularly the requirement to chamber a round only when ready to fire and to ensure the chamber is empty when negotiating obstacles or heavy bush. Borrowdale also advised hunters to understand their firearm’s safety mechanisms and ensure the catch cannot be easily switched into firing position. The coroner’s ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety when handling firearms, especially in challenging environments.
Tribute to Kate Aynsley
Kate Aynsley was a well-respected member of the hunting community, known for her passion for mentoring women hunters and contributing to training programs. Her death has been felt deeply by her family, friends, and the wider hunting community. The coroner’s ruling offers sincere condolences to those who felt her loss, and her legacy will continue to inspire and educate hunters about the importance of safety and responsible firearms handling.