Valley County says train shooting was actually varmint hunting

Two people who spoke to law enforcement after a suspected train shooting near Glasgow were, in fact, using a spotlight to find “varmints” and shoot them.

No shots were directed at the train, the Valley County Sheriff’s Department said in a press release on Thursday.

“This was a misunderstanding on the part of the BNSF crew, who reasonably but incorrectly believed they were being targeted,” a press release from Valley County said. “No malicious intent was established. No charges will be filed.”

Valley County on Wednesday morning sent out a press release after BNSF Railway employees reported a gunshot on Tuesday evening around 10. Investigators at the scene recovered a shell casing and the Valley County Sheriff’s Office issued a description of the truck in a press release.

According to the Valley County release, two people voluntarily spoke with law enforcement on Wednesday and cleared up the misunderstanding.

“Both individuals came forward promptly and voluntarily following the initial press release, cooperated fully with investigators, and were forthright throughout the process,” the press release said. “Their cooperation is acknowledged and appreciated.”

BNSF Police and Valley County both consider the matter closed. In Thursday’s release, the Sheriff’s Office reminded the public of firearm safety.

“Shooters have a responsibility to be conscientious of their surroundings, including proximity to public areas, roadways, rail corridors, and locations where other people may be present. The basic rules of firearm safety exist for good reason and apply in every situation,” the press release said.