Hunters' argument gets heated in Bayfield County

Two hunters in Bayfield County who had been tracking deer Tuesday got into an argument after nightfall that eventually led to one of the men’s arrest.

According to the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office account, Michael Pieterek, 40, called 911 at 5:40 p.m., reporting he had been shot by Jeffery Ottman, 45. Both men live in Eileen Township, southwest of Washburn. The incident reportedly occurred on Ottman’s property.

Deputies went to the scene and Pieterek was found near Ottman’s home. He was checked over in an ambulance, but no gunshot wound was found. Ottman was arrested without incident at his home.

The incident report says once the argument started, Ottman grabbed a 20-gauge shotgun and “fired a number of shots.” Pieterek ran from the area.

Ottman is being held without bond on charges of being armed while intoxicated and endangering the safety of another, the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office reported Wednesday.

He is expected to appear at a bail hearing Thursday in the Bayfield County Courthouse.

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