I followed up on the links that Amar posted.
Assuming that the laws quoted in the posts are correct, it seems absurd that kids of any age in this state can walk the woods with high powered firearms. The state agencies oppose this, but apparently the laws bind their hands. It is stupid to think that technical competence has anything to do with this, when maturity and the concept of consequences is something that kids under 18 just cannot handle. Actually, all you need to do is note how many idiots pulling wheelies on their super sport motorcyles or dying each year from high speed wrecks once the weather gets nice out to realize that most males under 30 lack an understanding of consequences.
Even with this tragedy, fat chance of making any changes.... Can you imagine the return fire that will occur by opposing interest groups if legislation to limit firearm use by minors is submitted because of this case?
It seems clear that the hikers were in an area where their identity could have been confirmed if time was taken. It is very open with just about all of the switcbacks full visible from any aspect. That it was in an area where clearly many many people hike should have meant firing into that area, even at a bona fide bear target was a reckless act. If the kids did not know this, certainly the grandfather should have. What a stupid place for an adult to take his grandkids to shoot a gun. There are multiple roads and other access points that cover the north side of that mountain that could have take the kids far from frequently used trails.
Alan
