PA: Hunter dies after falling from tree

Youngwood hunter's death ruled accident after fall

October 13, 2009

A 75-year-old man died after he fell out of a tree stand Monday in East Huntingdon Township, reported the Westmoreland County Coroner's Office.

The death has been ruled an accident.

Deputy Coroner Gerald Fritz reported that the body of Jere William Kennelty, 75, of South Third Street, Youngwood, was discovered in a wooded area off Preacher Road about 9:25 p.m. Monday. Family members began searching for Kennelty when he failed to return home after archery hunting.

Fritz said he died after falling about 15 feet from a tree stand. He said there were no safety harnesses or restraints in use when the accident occurred.

An autopsy by Cyril H. Wect and Pathology Associates today determined that Kennelty died from blunt force trauma to his thorax.

McCauley Funeral Home in Youngwood is in charge of arrangements.

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