On September 17, 2016, 17-year-old Ryan Mayhew, a senior at Thunder Mountain High School in Juneau, Alaska, tragically lost his life in an accidental shooting. That morning, Ryan and three companions—aged 26, 22, and 16—were preparing for a duck hunting trip. As Ryan stood outside a truck, he attempted to retrieve his shotgun from the backseat by pulling it toward him by the barrel. The firearm discharged, striking him in the torso.
Despite immediate first aid efforts by his companions and prompt medical attention at Bartlett Regional Hospital, Ryan succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
The Juneau Police Department investigated the incident and concluded that the shooting was a tragic accident. The firearm and vehicle were seized as part of the investigation, but no charges were filed, as there was no evidence of foul play. Ryan's untimely death deeply affected the Juneau community, especially his peers at Thunder Mountain High School, where he was known as a dedicated student and football player. In the aftermath, the school district provided grief counseling to support students and staff coping with the loss.
In memory of Ryan, two GoFundMe campaigns were established to assist his family with funeral expenses and other costs. The community's response was overwhelming, with donations pouring in and numerous tributes honoring his life. Friends and family remembered Ryan as a loving son, brother, and friend, whose passion for hunting and the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. His passing served as a poignant reminder of the importance of firearm safety, especially among young enthusiasts.
