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tgr news |les gets
The area surrounding Les Gets, France is a popular riding destination for mountain bikers. Wikipedia Photo.
A British mountain biker died on Saturday after being shot by a hunter in the French Alps. According to the BBC, the incident occurred when Marc Sutton, 34, was hit by a stray bullet while riding on a popular trail near the town of Montriond. When it happened, Sutton was described as being distinctly identifiable from his brightly colored gear and mountain bike.
Sutton’s death parallels an incident with a trail runner, who was also killed by a hunter in the region two weeks prior. Following the tragedy, the mayor of Montriond has implemented a temporary ban on hunting.
The hunter at fault is a 22-year-old man, who was part of a local seven-person hunt. He was taken to the hospital to be treated for shock and has not been arrested or charged. However, authorities have begun a manslaughter investigation which could lead to potential jail time for the hunter.
Sutton was described by friends as a passionate snowboarder and mountain biker. Also a local chef, the 34-year-old had recently opened a restaurant, Wild Beets Kitchen, in the neighboring town of Les Gets.