While everyone is aware that death is a part of life, most wish for themselves and their loved ones to live long full lives before having a peaceful death. Sadly, as most Pennsylvania residents are aware, this is not always how it works. It is fair to say that few are prepared for a loved one to encounter a death that is sudden, violent or avoidable.

The family of a woman from Lower Windsor Township is facing that now. The 30-year-old died in a fatal accident when a deer attacked her. At the time of the attack, the woman was inside a deer pen located on family property, attempting to rescue her dogs who had managed to sneak in. While inside of the pen, an axis deer that was rutting, gored her.

As a result of the attack, the woman reportedly suffered what the York County Coroner's Office called sharp-force head trauma. Though the woman's daughter called for emergency assistance, their efforts to resuscitate her were for not.

The family property upon which the tragic incident occurred is a private hunting preserve. The preserve which is run by the father of the deceased woman, provides animals including axis deer, red stags and elk, for paid customers to hunt. According to Windsor Township Police Chief, the deer can go into rut several times a year. During that period of time, the animal's behavior becomes unpredictable and aggressive.

Had the devastating accident happened to someone other than a family member, it is highly likely that a wrongful death lawsuit would be filed. Because however, the deceased was the daughter of the owner, a civil lawsuit will likely not be filed.

Source: The York Dispatch, "Police: Deer attack victim was retrieving dogs," Liz Evans Scolforo, July 2, 2012