KENAI -- A 44-year-old Soldotna man has been sentenced to seven years in prison for manslaughter.

Lyle Ludvick shot 23-year-old Brendan McGee in the head with a shotgun over what prosecutors said was an argument at a cabin over a $500 payment for a gun in July 2010. Ludvick said the shooting was an accident.

According to the Peninsula Clarion, Ludvick told authorities he had brought his gun for bear protection and that it unintentionally discharged when he turned to investigate a rustling coming from some bushes.

Ludvick told authorities that when he returned to face McGee, the other man leapt at him and the gun went off.

Ludvick spoke at Monday's sentencing at the Kenai Courthouse and said he was very sorry.