Happy Valley-Goose Bay Mayor John Hickey has been shot in the face and is in critical condition in a St. John's hospital.
Hickey, who was a member of the House of Assembly (MHA) from 2003 to 2011, went into the woods alone to check his rabbit snares on Saturday, sources tell CBC News.
It is unclear how the gun went off, but Hickey was reportedly shot under the chin before making his way to the main road to get help.
"John is very much a Labrador man," said town Coun. Lori Dyson. "The doctors kept talking about how tough he is … how strong and stubborn to get himself to the road."
'Amazing' response saved his life
In a statement released Saturday evening, Deputy Mayor Wally Andersen said Hickey was "in critical, but stable condition" at the Labrador Health Centre.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Mayor Hickey and his family at this time," said Andersen.
Hickey was taken to hospital in St. John's just after midnight. Dyson praised the efforts of the first responders, both with the local ambulance service and the medevac team.
"It was nothing short of amazing how they handled him and took care of him," she said.
Happy Valley-Goose Bay Mayor and former MHA John Hickey is in critical but stable condition after a hunting accident on Saturday. (Jacob Barker/CBC)
Lake Melville MHA Perry Trimper offered his thoughts on Facebook for his friend and colleague.
"The paramedics, nurses and doctors are amazed at the 'strength' of this man, after all that he has been through in this accident," said Trimper.
"Our thoughts and prayers will now be needed to help John with his recovery."
His wife is expected to arrive in St. John's on Sunday afternoon to be by his side.
