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Stray gunfire startles area resident
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 A local resident experienced a scary surprise Saturday when a bullet zinged through his pickup windows, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir said.

At 9:29 a.m. Saturday, Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the area near the diversion dam on the Arkansas River southwest of Great Bend. The resident was in the area in his pickup truck, when a bullet entered the windshield and exited through the back glass.  

There were no injuries.

Bellendir said the subject said he did not hear a gunshot and did not see anyone in the area.  Based on investigation, it is believed the shot was a stray round fired by someone hunting or target shooting.

“The Sheriff’s Office would strongly advise persons discharging firearms, whether hunting or target shooting, to exercise caution,” Bellendir said. Those using firearms should observe basic safety rules and always know where their bullet is going to stop. Many large caliber rifle rounds are lethal for more than two miles.  

“Hunting and target shooting are popular sports in our area,” he said. “We all need to be responsible and enjoy this activity in a safe manner.”