A teenage boy has been shot dead in Iowa after being mistaken for a squirrel, authorities say.

Carson Ryan, 17, was allegedly shot in the back of his head by a member of his hunting party during a trip to rural woodland in Brighton.

The shooter apparently mistook him for an animal, a statement from an Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) said.

The 17-year-old was taken to University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center in Iowa City, but later died of his injuries.

Carson, a varsity football player, had been hunting for squirrels when the incident occurred.

A GoFundMe page set up in the wake of Carson’s death describes him as a “bright light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him”.

“His kindness, humor, and genuine spirit touched countless lives, and his loss leaves an immeasurable void,” the page says.

His school, Washington Boys, paid tribute on social media, saying: “Our hearts are broken”.

“Keep Carson’s mom, family, classmates, and teammates in your hearts as we navigate the devastating loss of Carson”.

The page has so far raised $50,000 (£37,000) for memorial expenses and to “support Carson’s family as they navigate the unimaginable challenges of loss.”

“Our hearts are with the Washington High School community as they mourn the tragic loss of one of their students,” another read tribute from a nearby school read.

“Pekin schools invite all staff and students to wear orange and black on Monday, Sept 29th as a sign of support Carson Ryan, his family, the Washington School District, and community.”

A spokesperson for the IDNR said an investigation into the incident was being conducted with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.