News Summary
A construction worker, Anthony Marquet Hollowman, was killed in a trench collapse in Newberry County, SC, on February 18, 2025. As he worked to lay a waterline in a six-foot-deep trench, unexpected soil movement caused a tragic accident. Rescue efforts could not save him, prompting an investigation into soil conditions and safety protocols in the construction industry. The community mourns the loss, highlighting the dangers construction workers face.
Tragedy Strikes as Construction Worker Dies in Newberry County Trench Collapse
Newberry County, South Carolina – A heartbreaking incident unfolded on February 18, 2025, when a construction worker was tragically killed in a trench collapse during a routine task in the small community of Prosperity. The victim has been identified as 53-year-old Anthony Marquet Hollowman, a resident of Bishopville. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that construction workers face on the job.
Details of the Incident
The terrible accident occurred around 10:50 a.m. in the 7700 block of Macedonia Church Road, where Hollowman was busy laying a waterline in a trench that was approximately six feet deep. Eyewitness accounts have revealed that the trench’s walls unexpectedly gave way, burying Hollowman beneath tons of soil. His fellow workers immediately rushed to the scene in a desperate attempt to save him but were regrettably unsuccessful.
Emergency Response
Multiple trench rescue teams from Newberry County and surrounding jurisdictions sprang into action following the distress call. Specialized rescue units from Whitmire, Newberry Fire, Columbia Fire Department, and Lexington County Fire Services converged at the site to assist in the life-saving efforts. Despite their best efforts, the rescue operations proved to be futile, and Hollowman was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation Underway
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into the incident to uncover the circumstances leading to such a tragic event. Sheriff Lee Foster has indicated that the investigation will focus on potential contributing factors, including soil conditions and any structural issues surrounding the trench.
Community Shock and Grief
In the wake of this tragedy, the Newberry County community is left mourning the loss of Hollowman. Daniel Quattlebaum, representing the Newberry County Water and Sewer Authority, expressed deep condolences to both Hollowman’s family and his fellow workers, who now face the emotional weight of this unexpected loss. The devastating incident has left many shaken, raising questions about safety protocols in the construction industry.
Dangers of Trench Work
Trench collapses are known to be among the most serious hazards in construction work, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. According to safety guidelines established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), stringent regulations exist to mitigate risks associated with trenching, but accidents can still occur. Employers must ensure that all workers are properly trained and that safety measures are actively enforced at all times.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Anthony Marquet Hollowman serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with construction work, especially in tasks involving trenching. As investigations continue and an autopsy is scheduled for later this week, the community grapples with the loss of a life dedicated to hard work and service. This incident underscores the urgent need for ongoing education and stringent adherence to safety standards to protect the lives of those who work in construction.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Newberry Fatal Trench Collapse
- Wikipedia: Trench Collapse
- The State: Newberry Trench Collapse
- Google Search: Trench Collapse Accidents
- Fox Carolina: Worker Killed in Trench Collapse
- Google Scholar: Trench Collapse Construction
- Local Accident Reports: SC Construction Worker Killed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Site Safety
