Weare police responded to call at South Stark Highway and Short Street on Friday, Nov. 28, for a reported gunshot wound.

Justin Dean, 20, of 6 Jade Road in Merrimack was allegedly shot by his brother, Josiah Dean, also of Merrimack.

According to police, the brothers had spent the morning hunting in New Boston. While Josiah Dean was in the backseat of the vehicle unloading a revolver, it discharged, striking Justin Dean in the back, who was sitting in the front passenger seat at the time.

“It appears to be accidental,” said Weare Police Chief Greg Begin. “This is the first incident like this I’ve seen in my 20-something years, but I have heard of it occurring before.”

According to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Web site, deer-hunting season ends Dec. 7 in New Hampshire; however, pheasant may still be hunted through Dec. 31, and small game such as rabbit, opossum, fox, weasel, raccoon and skunk go through March 31.

“(After hunting) make sure your weapons are cleared before getting into your vehicle,” said Begin.

Other safety tips New Hampshire Fish and Game offers include:
• Control the direction of your firearm’s muzzle.
• Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
• Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions.
• Never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot.

Weare police were assisted at the scene by New Hampshire State Police and Weare Fire and Rescue personnel, who transported the victim to Elliot Hospital in Manchester.

According to Begin, Justin Dean was originally admitted to intensive care but has since been moved from that unit.

The incident is still under investigation.