A hunter from New Jersey passed away while hunting in central Somerset County this afternoon.

David Ridgway, age 69 of Bridgeton, New Jersey, was walking in the woods hunting bear at approximately 8:00 a.m. this morning when he collapsed. Members of his hunting group performed CPR, but he passed away at the scene according to emergency medical personnel who were dispatched to the incident.

Eustis Fire and Rescue, a Carrabassett Valley EMT along with Maine Game Wardens all responded to the scene in the northern part of Pierce Pond Township near the Dead River. Ridgway was carried out of the woods, and then transported to Wiles Funeral Home in Farmington.

The incident remains under investigation. This release will be updated if any new information becomes available.