IDAHO — An accidental shooting incident in Eastern Idaho has left one man dead. While outside the normal coverage area of Buckrailnews, we pass along the information as a reminder to choose target shooting locations carefully and always be aware of the downrange area beyond your intended target.

Michael A. Ephram, 23, of Idaho Falls died on May 11 from injuries sustained in a shooting incident west of Idaho Falls in Bonneville County off W. Arco Highway near 75 West in the area of the old National Guard Training Range.

According to Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Kevin Casper, two separate parties were target shooting in slightly different areas a few hundred feet apart. Ephram was outside the vehicle when he was struck in the head with a bullet and never regained consciousness. Rounds also struck the vehicle that Ephram and his companions were in.

The individual that fired the rounds that struck Ephram and the related vehicle has been cooperative in the investigation, and has been in contact with detectives. Preliminary investigation indicates the incident was not intentional. The Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has been consulted and will review the case when the investigation is complete.