Death ruled accidental

Authorities have ruled the shooting death of a 16-year-old Poplar boy was accidental.

Elijah Grey Bear was pronounced dead on October 17, 2021, at a residence along Red Thunder Road west of town.

Because the case involves juveniles, police have been silent on details of the shooting. However, a source close to law enforcement said the shooting was “self-inflicted” and accidental.

Grey Bear was a student at Poplar High School. He was involved in cross country and basketball.

Nobody is facing charges in the fatal shooting.