Tragic Incident in Prosperity: Construction Worker Loses Life

News Summary

The community of Prosperity, SC mourns the death of construction worker Anthony Hollowman, who was killed in a trench collapse while working on a water line. Eyewitnesses reported a sudden failure of the trench walls, trapping him under rubble. Despite swift emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the collapse, particularly in light of recent heavy rainfall that may have weakened the trench’s structure. The community is rallying to support Hollowman’s family during this painful time.

Tragic Incident in Prosperity: Construction Worker Loses Life in Trench Collapse

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the community of Prosperity, South Carolina, is coming to terms with the tragic death of 53-year-old Anthony Marquet Hollowman, a dedicated construction worker from Bishopville. This devastating incident unfolded on a Monday morning around 10:50 a.m., sending shockwaves through local residents and Hollowman’s loved ones.

The Scene of the Accident

The unfortunate accident took place in the 7700 block of Macedonia Church Road, where Hollowman was diligently working on laying down a water line in a trench. Eyewitnesses reported that the walls of the trench, estimated to be a daunting six feet deep, suddenly gave way, trapping him beneath the rubble.

Emergency Response Efforts

In a race against time, multiple rescue crews from Newberry County and nearby regions sprang into action. Emergency responders worked tirelessly in an effort to free Hollowman from the grasp of the collapsed trench. Despite their quick response and hard work, the rescue efforts proved to be tragically unsuccessful, and Hollowman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigation Underway

The Newberry County Coroner has confirmed Hollowman’s identity and announced that an autopsy is scheduled for later this week. Meanwhile, Newberry County deputies responded to urgent calls regarding the incident, quickly assessing the situation. Authorities are currently piecing together the events leading up to the collapse, examining various factors that may have played a role.

One significant component under review is the recent heavy rainfall that may have compromised the structural integrity of the trench and roadbed. Sheriff Lee Foster indicated that weather conditions, along with potential issues related to the construction site, are critical points of investigation.

Community Mourning

The Bigger Picture

This unfortunate incident highlights the perilous nature of construction work, especially when it comes to working in areas like trenches, which can be inherently dangerous. Professionals in the field are often reminded of the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols—especially under challenging weather conditions. This accident serves as a solemn reminder of the risks that construction workers face daily and the need for vigilance to prevent such shattering accidents in the future.

As the investigation unfolds, both the Newberry County Coroner’s Office and the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office will be working together to ensure that all aspects of this tragic incident are thoroughly examined. In the meantime, the community of Prosperity is coming together, united in their grief for a man who dedicated his life to serving others through his work.

While the full details surrounding the cause of the trench collapse remain under investigation, one thing is clear: Anthony Hollowman will be remembered not just for his profession, but for the warmth he brought into the lives of those around him.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. The community stands in solidarity as they honor his memory and seek answers to prevent future tragedies.

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Additional Resources

• WLTX: Fatal Trench Collapse
• The State: Construction Worker Dies
• WIS TV: Trench Collapse in Newberry County
• Fox Carolina: Worker Killed in Trench Collapse
• Wikipedia: Trench Safety