Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Area Commands

Sedona AZ (April 1, 2013) – On March 29, 2013, around 1:oo in the afternoon, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to a motel on Route 66 in Seligman, Arizona, where EMS personnel were treating a gunshot wound victim.

The man was identified as 31-year-old Francico Pacheco-Lozania from the Verde Valley. He was airlifted to Flagstaff Medical Center and later died the same day resulting from a gunshot wound to the head.

The initial investigation revealed that a 31-year-old woman was driving a pick-up truck in a remote area south of Seligman, Arizona, with her 12-year-old son and husband riding in the bed of the truck. Her son, in possession of a rifle, and her husband, who was in possession of a shotgun, were hunting prairie dogs while seated in the pick-up bed. When the truck was stopped, her son spotted a prairie dog and took aim. Just as he fired the rifle, her husband stood in front of him and was struck by the bullet. The victim fell to the ground and his wife was able to get her husband into the cab and drive to Seligman to meet with medical personnel.

Deputies remained on scene throughout the afternoon interviewing the involved parties, examining the firearms and incident scene, and collecting evidence. The deputies have initially concluded that the shooting was accidental.

Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260.

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