RE: What are this guys chances?
Wow bawanajim ease off a little. You do not know what actually happened because you were not there. So you cannot assume that it was unethical at all. He made what sounds like a good shot with no penetration.
How far was the shot, and what are you pulling on your bow? I would say he will be fine. Deer are tough animals, but you will notice him next year if you see him. His rack will show the signs of his injury.