POCATELLO — Century High School sophmore Marlee EchoHawk’s hopes of state track medals this year and performing in upcoming dance events were dashed on Saturday following an accidental shooting, according to a press release from the EchoHawk family. The accident resulted in more than 50 shotgun pellets lodging in both of her feet.

    She and two other girls were injured when a boy in the group accidentally discharged a 20 gauge shotgun during a pre-prom group date. Surgeons at the Portneuf Regional Medical Center in Pocatello were able to repair much of the damage and preserve EchoHawk’s toes, but she faces a long and painful recovery and uncertain future ability to run and dance. Doctors were only able to remove about half of the pellets in her toes.

    EchoHawk can barely walk on her heels with the aid of crutches, but hopes to travel with her parents to Boise this week to support her teammates at the state high school track meet. Her parents express heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff at PRMC, first responders and law enforcement, and the many friends, family, and community members who have shown support in so many ways.

    EchoHawk recently posted strong first place finishes in the high school district track meet in the 100, 200, Medley Relay and 4 x 100 Relay (she anchored the 4x1 and ran the 200in the medley relay team). She holds the Century High School record in the 200m, which she set as a freshman. Last year she medaled at the Idaho State track meet in the 100m and 200m. She was the only freshman to make it to the finals. Her qualifying times at the recent district meet made her a top contender in the 100m and 200m for the upcoming state track meet in Boise on Thursday and Friday.

    EchoHawk is also a competitive dancer with Dana Smith Dance Studios, and was looking forward to upcoming dance recitals.