A beloved Iowa high school athlete has died following an unimaginable accident on September 28, 2025. Carson Ryan, 17, was squirrel hunting when a member of his group reportedly mistook him for an animal. Carson was fatally shot in the head. The tragic shooting devastated the community, which has rallied to support his heartbroken mother.
According to a news release from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the teen “was struck in the back of the head. Ryan was transported to UI Health Care Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.”
Carson was both an athlete and a member of the 2025 homecoming court at Washington High School, KCRG reported. Following his death, several Iowa schools chose to honor his memory by wearing black and orange.
Main Street Washington shared the news of Carson’s death on Facebook and received tremendous support from the town and surrounding communities.
“We continue to be blown away by the amazing show of love everywhere we look, from beautifully painted windows to a sea of black & orange,” the post reads. “You are not alone in your grief, and we are so blessed to be surrounded by such outstanding people.”
According to his obituary, Carson loved the outdoors and playing sports and had many friends. He enjoyed school and planned to attend college and study accounting.
“More than anything, Carson valued time with his family and friends. He shared a special bond with his little cousins, whom he adored, and they loved him just as dearly in return,” the obituary reads.
Kelsie Wheeler created a GoFundMe account to help Carson’s mother with his final expenses.
“Our dear friend, Heidi, is facing an unimaginable tragedy. Her beloved son, Carson, was taken far too soon in a tragic accident,” Wheeler wrote. “No parent should ever have to experience such a heartbreaking loss, and our hearts are broken alongside hers.”
The shooting remains under investigation but appears to be a grave accident. The Iowa DNR does not anticipate any charges in connection with Carson’s death, KCRG reported.
