By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2024-11-21 23:01:39 | Updated at 2024-11-24 05:43:51
2 days ago
At least three deer hunters died of heart attacks in Michigan over the span of just two days, officials said.
The hunters - all men - ranged in age from 57 to 83, said Dr. William Morrone, the medical examiner for Bay, Midland, Tuscola, Arenac and Iosco counties.
None of the men have been identified.
The medical examiner said two of the men, who died hunting in Arenac County, were a 65-year-old from Bay City and an 83-year-old from Portage.
The 57-year-old hailed from Lincoln Park and died in Tuscola County.
The current hunting season began on Friday, November 15.
In an interview this week, Morrone pondered a possible explanation after all the deaths fell in his jurisdiction.
Speaking to ABC 12 News, Dr. Morrone offered his theory - along with a stern warning.
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Three male hunters ranging in age from 57 to 83 died of heart attacks in Michigan over the span of just two days. Pictured, two deer in the woods of northern Michigan
Medical Examiner Dr. William Morrone espressed shock at the deaths: 'I've never seen three people die in 48 hours from heart attacks while deer hunting before'
'Better diets, more activity and everybody should think about a physical before this,' the doctor said, noting the hunters could have been in poor physical shape.
'I've never seen three people die in 48 hours from heart attacks while deer hunting before,' he added of the likelihood of such an occurrence.
'Deer hunting is a big deal in this state, but it’s also taxing the body.'
Morrone went on to say that, since the pandemic, aging hunters have failed to get back in suitable shape.
He pointed out that two of the men had been hauling deer when they suffered heart attacks.
'This is strenuous activity for men who have been sitting around,' Dr. Morrone said.
'Especially if they're retired.'
Morrone other state officials suggested those who want to hunt and are at higher risk for heart failure go to a doctor first.
Pictured, hunters taking part in this year's season
Morrone went on to say that, since the pandemic, aging hunters have failed to get back in suitable shape
He pointed out that two of the men had been hauling deer when they suffered heart attacks
More also advised that hunters exercise.
'The first thing they should do is start walking a month before hunting season, maybe do some light weight-lifting, like cardio,' he said.
'I'm seeing cardiac disease in arteries that 20 years ago I was seeing in 65-year-olds and now I'm seeing in 45-year-olds,' he added of increasingly common instances of hypertension and cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, particularly in men.
He and others in the state also recommend hunting with a buddy - and bringing a first-aid kit.
