A Natchez man was in the ICU at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana, Monday recovering from multiple broken bones, a punctured lung and a gash to his head after falling approximately 12 feet from a deer stand Monday morning.

“He is in stable condition after being airlifted this afternoon,” said Craig Beesley, brother of Ken Beesley Jr., 49, who fell out of the tree stand just before noon Monday.

Craig said he, Ken and another friend were on their property in Natchez on Monday hanging tree stands when Ken turned the wrong way and fell from a tree stand.

Archery deer season opens Oct. 1 and many hunters are busy this time of year getting ready for the season.

The fall punctured a lung, broke ribs and other bones and put an 8- to 10-inch gash in Ken’s head, Craig said.

“He was very lucky he was able to come through this,” Craig said.

Ken underwent minor procedures Tuesday for the punctured lung and head wound.

Craig said none of the injuries appear to have caused any permanent damage.

“He’s still in the ICU,” Craig said Monday night. “He’s got a long road to recovery. We hope and pray everything is going to be good.”

Craig said the family is grateful for the outpouring of support they have received from the community following the accident.

“We are very thankful for all the support we’ve gotten today from family and friends and hope everyone will keep him in their thoughts,” Craig said.