**Man Mistakes Boy for Groundhog, Accidentally Shoots 10-Year-Old in Linn County; Faces Firearm Charges**

Man Mistakes Boy for Groundhog, Accidentally Shoots 10-Year-Old in Linn County; Faces Firearm Charges

 Monday, July 7, 2025, near the 900 block of Ivanhoe Circle along the Cedar River in Mount Vernon, Linn County, Iowa

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call reporting a child shot in the head.

🔍 What Happened

• Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 10-year-old boy with several small bleeding wounds on his back and the back of his headThe boy had been fishing alone behind a row of bushes when he was hit by birdshot fired from a .410 shotgun, with the shooter positioned about 90 feet away

• Authorities indicate the shooting was accidental.

🧍‍♂️ Shooter Identified

• The shooter has been identified as 62‑year‑old Kevin Gouchee .

• Gouchee reportedly mistook the boy for a groundhog—believing he saw movement in the bushes—and fired in that direction

🏥 Medical Condition of the Child

• Miraculously, the boy’s injuries have been described as non-life-threatening, and as of Tuesday he remains hospitalized and is expected to be discharged soonHe is reported to be conscious and breathing following the incident

🚔 Charges & Legal Status

• Gouchee was taken into custody and is facing charges of reckless use of a firearm resulting in bodily injury and possession of a firearm by a felon

• Court documents also note he has a prior felony conviction, making him prohibited from owning a firearm

📋 Investigation in Progress

• Police are examining the exact circumstances, including:

  1. The placement of the bushes, line of sight, and distance.

  2. Gouchee’s mental state and intent, including why he believed it was wildlife.

  3. Reviewing ballistics evidence and the exact spread of the shot.

• Additional charges may be considered depending on investigation findings

👥 Community & Law Enforcement Response

• Local officials described the incident as a tragic accident, underscoring dangers of presumed wildlife shooting.

• Authorities emphasize responsible gun handling, especially involving shotguns—and the dire consequences of misidentification.

📌 Broader Context

• Accidental shootings—particularly in public or semi-public areas—shine a spotlight on firearm safety standards, user responsibility, and the need for:

  • Clear identification of targets before shooting.

  • Proper training in firearm use and control.

  • Awareness of surroundings and the presence of people, not just animals.

✅ Summary

On the afternoon of July 7, 2025, a 62-year-old man, Kevin Gouchee, accidentally shot a 10-year-old boy who was fishing behind bushes along the Cedar River in Mount Vernon. Believing he was aiming at a groundhog from 90 feet away, Gouchee fired birdshot from a .410 shotgun. Thankfully, the young victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover. Gouchee has since been charged with reckless use of a firearm and unlawful firearm possession due to his criminal history. Investigators continue to gather evidence and assess whether additional charges are warranted.