Stewart Island hunting death: Jock Davies, 21, remembered by family after fatal shooting incident

The victim of a fatal hunting incident on Stewart Island was a 21-year-old from a small Otago town who had battled leukemia as a teen.

Jock Davies was in a hunting party of nine when the fatal incident occurred about midday on Saturday, July 6, on the South Lords River hunting block.

The Herald understands that Davies – who it’s believed was shot – comes from Tapanui, where his family is well-known in the community.

A family member paid tribute to Davies, and confirmed his death on social media today.

“It’s with great sadness that the Davies and extended family acknowledge the passing of youngest brother Jock. He was dearly loved and always will be!”

Jock Davies survived leukemia as a teenager, with the Herald highlighting his years-long cancer battle back in 2019.

His mum Sarah said Jock’s experience with leukemia was extremely tough.

“There were two or three days last year after the transplant when we weren’t sure if it would work – he was in intensive care, he was very sick,” she said six years ago.

A bone marrow transplant was successful and young Jock was able to get back to enjoying sports and the outdoors.

Police were notified of the incident at around midday on Saturday after a personal locator beacon was activated.

A search and rescue team was deployed to the island via helicopter and found the man deceased.

Investigations are continuing, with police saying they are speaking to those who were in the area at the time.

Detective Sergeant Mark McCloy said the coroner has been advised.