Edison man shot while hunting in Assunpink

MILLSTONE - A 53-year-old Edison man was injured in a hunting accident in the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area on Nov. 14.

According to the New Jersey State Police, the East Windsor police station received a 911 call at 6:51 p.m. stating that William Sabovick Sr., 53, had been shot near the ranger's station in the part of the reserve located in Millstone Township.

"When the police arrived, the hunter was conscious and sitting on the ground," said Steve Jones, spokesperson for the state police. "He was alert when the trooper got there."

After Sabovick was hit in the face with birdshot, or little shot pellets used for hunting small game, his son called 911. Sabovick's facial injuries included an injury to one eye.

Jones said Sabovick was transported to Capital Health Systems at Fuld in Trenton and was then sent for specialized care to Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. The injuries were not life-threatening, according to Jones.

Sabovick was reportedly hunting pheasant with his son in the Assunpink at the time of the incident. He was just walking into the woods when another hunter took a shot at a pheasant that had kicked up in front of him.

N.J. conservation officers from state police headquarters in Trenton investigated the incident and questioned the man who had reportedly shot Sabovick, according to Jones. No charges have been filed.