A teen in Juneau is dead following the accidental discharge of a shotgun.

The Juneau Police report states that the young man was attempting to free the shotgun from the backseat of a truck, holding it by the barrel. At this point, the gun apparently went off, shooting the victim at close range in the chest.

Three witnesses were there at the time, and say they were preparing to go duck hunting. The three male witnesses were identified as Juneau residents ages 26, 22, and 16 years old. The witnesses immediately called 911 and tried to render 1st aid to the 17 year old victim.

The victim was rushed to the Bartlett Regional Hospital by ambulance. At approximately 9:32 AM, the young man was pronounced deceased.

The victim has been identified and his family have been notified, but his name is not yet being released due to his status as a juvenile.

The Juneau School District has also been notified and they are taking steps to provide grief counselling to fellow students.