Goulburn Valley farmer jailed for five years over accidental shooting

A Goulburn Valley farmer who accidentally shot dead his friend after he says he tripped over an eggplant has been jailed for five years.

Angelo Russo has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and must serve at least 2.5 years behind bars overt he fatal shooting at his Tatura property last year.

David Calandro was shot in the head as he was sitting in his ute in front of his two young sons after running over Russo’s dog.

To stop his injured dog suffering, Russo got his shotgun and killed it.

A court heard shortly after, Russo tripped possibly over an eggplant and accidentally shot his friend, Mr Calandro.

His firearm was faulty and discharged, without him pulling the trigger.

The judge says Russo should know gun safety given his experience with guns.

He could be released in just over a year with time already served.