John Koziol, a 67-year-old Caucasian male from Greece, New York, died on Saturday, November 7, 2020, in what was determined to be a tragic accident at a gun range in Penfield. The incident occurred at the Genesee Conservation League on Old Penfield Road, where Koziol, a respected and longtime member of the club, was serving as a certified range safety officer.
On that Saturday morning, the gun club was hosting a United States Practical Shooting Association competition.
Koziol was overseeing the event when a competitor's firearm accidentally discharged. According to reports, the competitor was attempting to holster a loaded firearm when it was dropped. The impact with the ground caused the weapon to fire, and the projectile struck Koziol. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office and emergency medical services were called to the indoor range at approximately 9:30 a.m., but Koziol was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office investigated the shooting, and their findings supported the conclusion that the event was an unfortunate accident. No criminal charges were filed in connection with the death of John Koziol. The president of the Genesee Conservation League expressed deep sadness over the loss of a devoted member and friend, emphasizing that safety had always been the club's top priority. The shooting range was temporarily closed following the incident to allow for a thorough investigation by both the Sheriff's Department and the club itself.
