FERRY TWP. (WWJ/AP) - Authorities say a west Michigan man accidentally shot off his index finger during a hunting incident.

Oceana County Sheriff officials say the man was unloading his .50 caliber muzzle loader while hunting on private property in Oceana County’s Ferry Township about 10 a.m. Saturday when he unintentionally discharged the weapon. Authorities say the man’s left hand was near the muzzle.

Lt. Craig Mast told MLive.com the man’s left index finger was shot off the hand. He was treated at a local hospital.

Mast said the man, whose identity was not released, was cited for not having a valid hunting license.

No further details were given.

TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.