News Summary
The Prosperity community is mourning after a trench collapse resulted in the death of 53-year-old Anthony Marquet Hollowman during a water line installation on February 18, 2025. Emergency responders and specialized rescue units were deployed to the scene, but tragically, Hollowman was pronounced dead at the site. Investigations into safety practices at construction sites are underway, raising awareness of the dangers workers face in the industry. This incident marks a somber reminder of the critical need for adherence to safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
Tragic Incident Shakes Prosperity Community as Worker Loses Life in Trench Collapse
Prosperity, South Carolina has experienced a heartbreaking incident that has left an indelible mark on the local community. A construction worker tragically lost his life on the morning of February 18, 2025, following a trench collapse while he was working on a water line installation.
The Victim
The victim has been identified as 53-year-old _Anthony Marquet Hollowman_ from nearby Bishopville. Hollowman was a dedicated worker, laying a water line in a trench when the unexpected collapse occurred, trapping him beneath the soil.
Emergency Response
Police received a distress call around 10:50 a.m. that a worker was buried in a ditch, which spurred an immediate response from emergency personnel. Newberry County EMS, Fairview Fire, and Lake Murray Rescue quickly rushed to the scene, located near the 7700 block of Macedonia Church Road.
Before the emergency responders arrived, fellow workers on the site attempted to rescue Hollowman, showing the courage and teamwork that is so vital in the construction industry. Unfortunately, their efforts were unsuccessful, leading to a somber atmosphere as rescue units continued to arrive.
Specialized Rescue Efforts
To ensure that everything possible was done, specialized trench rescue units from _Whitmire Rescue_ and additional fire services from both _Columbia_ and _Lexington County_ were called in to assist with the rescue. Their expertise highlights the seriousness of working in such dangerous conditions, as trench collapses can be particularly devastating.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
As the situation unfolded, it became clear that this was not merely a tragic accident but also a wake-up call regarding safety practices in construction. The Newberry County Coroner’s Office tragically confirmed that Hollowman had died at the scene. An autopsy is scheduled for later this week, but the loss has already been deeply felt by friends, family, and coworkers.
Currently, an investigation is underway by both the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office and the coroner’s office to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the trench collapse. Such accidents raise important questions about safety regulations and practices at construction sites, especially as work-related injuries appear to be on the rise in the area.
Community Impact
This incident serves as a grave reminder of the risks faced by construction workers who tirelessly contribute to building and maintaining the infrastructure of our communities. The sheriff’s office has emphasized the importance of trench safety, reminding the public and industry workers about adhering to safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
While no other injuries were reported, the impact of this event reverberates throughout Prosperity and surrounding areas. Friends and family of Hollowman are grappling with the deep sadness and shock that accompanies such an unexpected loss, and many are left wondering how to move forward.
A Call for Awareness
As investigations continue, it’s essential for everyone involved in construction and the public at large to recognize the importance of safety measures. Educating workers on how to stay safe while working in trenches not only protects lives but also promotes a culture of safety within the industry.
As Prosperity mourns the loss of one of its own, the hope is that lessons will be learned to prevent such incidents from happening again. The spirit of community support will undoubtedly play a crucial role in helping those affected heal during this difficult time.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Construction Worker
Grief Strikes Newberry Community: A Heartbreaking Loss
Tragic Loss in Newberry County: Construction Worker Dies After Trench Collapse
Tragic Trench Collapse in Newberry County Claims Life
Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Local Worker
Tragic Incident: Construction Worker Dies After Trench Collapse in Newberry County
Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Newberry County Worker
Tragedy Strikes Newberry County: Construction Worker Dies
Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Construction Worker in Newberry County
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- The State
- WIS TV
- WLTX
- Workers Compensation
- Wikipedia: Construction Safety
- Google Search: Construction Worker Trench Collapse Accident Safety
- Google Scholar: Trench Safety Construction Sites
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Trench Safety
- Google News: Trench Collapse Accident Newberry County
