On Monday, October 16, near Blacksburg, South Carolina, a 76-year-old man suffered a fatal accident involving his Ford 1620 tractor while mowing grass on his property.
A Sudden Turn of Events
Gary Moss was towing a landscaping attachment when he lost control and drove down an embankment. As a result, he was ejected from the tractor, which continued on and subsequently trapped him between the machinery and the attachment.
Immediate Rescue Attempted
His wife discovered him in this distressing situation and immediately called 911. Despite a prompt response, Moss was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact circumstances of the accident and the direct cause of his death remain under investigation. An autopsy has been scheduled by the Cherokee County Coroner’s Office.
A Grave Reminder
Cherokee County Coroner Dennis Fowler emphasized the dangers of operating heavy machinery like tractors, which can weigh up to 2,352 pounds.
The tragic incident follows another recent accident in mid-August. At a county fair in Laurelton, Pennsylvania, 33-year-old Brandy Horner was fatally injured during a tractor pull event due to an equipment malfunction. An exhaust wheel dislodged from a tractor and struck Horner, who was in the audience. Immediate medical assistance was rendered, but she was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The event was canceled, though the fair continued. Pennsylvania State Police stated there was no suspicion of foul play or criminal activity connected to the accident.
Both accidents underscore the unpredictability and inherent dangers of heavy machinery. Events like these not only affect the victims but also deeply impact families and communities, emphasizing the importance of increased awareness and safety precautions.
