At around 6 a.m. troopers responded to the Noble Farm on Route 83 in the town of Cherry Creek for a possible shooting. Further investigation reveals that the only victim was farm owner Nelson Nobles, 53, of Cherry Creek. Scanner reports indicate he was shot six times. Troopers did not confirm the number but did say he was “shot multiple times and transported by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center where he was listed in guarded condition.”

Pine Valley Central School was closed Tuesday for precautionary measures due to the proximity to the incident, but police said the incident is not believed to further endanger the community or school. The school district sits about 500 feet away on the opposite side of the road.

A message left at school for James Przepasniak, interim superintendent, was not returned Tuesday, however, he did issue the following statement on Facebook: “Pine Valley School District is closed (Tuesday) because of an incident at a farm near the school campus. Although the incident is unrelated to the school, we made the decision to cancel in consultation with the investigating law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement continues to be present in the community and on campus as a precautionary measure.

“Our District followed all of the necessary safety protocols and response plans to ensure the safety of our students and staff. At no time were students or staff at risk. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and understanding in this ongoing police matter.”

Nelson Noble, the owner of Noble Farm, was shot multiple times Tuesday morning. OBSERVER Photo by Gregory Bacon.

Jennifer Phillips, a public relations specialist for Pine Valley, said the school was scheduled to send out a phone call to all residents Tuesday evening saying that classes would be in session today.

No arrests have been made. Capt. Eric Balon said in a text message that no one has been taken into custody yet, but that they believe the shooting was targeted. “There is no reason to believe (there is) any danger to the public,” he wrote.

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office and NYSP Forensic Investigation Unit are assisting with this investigation.

If anyone has information about this incident, contact State Police at 716-679-1520 or 585-344-6200.

The Pine Valley School District, seen at left, is about 500 feet from Noble Farm, where a man was shot multiple times. OBSERVER Photo by Gregory Bacon.