Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Newberry County Worker

Construction site with safety barriers

News Summary

A construction worker, Anthony Marquet Hollowman, tragically lost his life following a trench collapse in Prosperity, Newberry County. The incident occurred while he was installing a water line, and despite extensive rescue efforts, he could not be saved. The investigation is ongoing, with heavy rainfall possibly contributing to the collapse. The community is mourning Hollowman’s loss and reflecting on the dangers of construction work.

Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Newberry County Worker

In the quiet town of Prosperity, located in the heart of Newberry County, a tragic incident has left the community in shock. A construction worker lost his life in a devastating trench collapse on Monday morning. Authorities have identified the deceased as _53-year-old Anthony Marquet Hollowman_ from Bishopville.

The Incident Unfolds

It was approximately 10:50 a.m. when the unfortunate event occurred in the _7700 block of Macedonia Church Road_. Hollowman was engaged in the essential task of laying a water line when the walls of the trench, estimated to be a dangerously deep _six feet_, suddenly gave way. This incident left him trapped, sparking a race against time for rescue crews.

A Race Against Time

The Newberry County Sheriff, Lee Foster, quickly alerted multiple trench rescue teams from both Newberry County and nearby regions. Emergency responders, including local deputies, firefighters from Fairview, Lake Murray Rescue, and specialized units from the Columbia and Lexington County Fire Services, rushed to the scene. Despite their extensive efforts, the teams were unable to rescue Hollowman, who tragically succumbed to the collapse.

Investigating the Cause

As the community mourns the loss, questions arise about what led to such a disaster. The cause of the trench collapse is currently under investigation. _Heavy rainfall_ in the days leading up to the incident may have played a role, but authorities are also examining the structure of the roadbed and additional contributing factors.

Community Reacts

Daniel Quattlebaum from the Newberry County Water and Sewer Authority expressed heartfelt condolences, reaching out to Hollowman’s family, friends, and coworkers during this difficult time. The impact of his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him. _No other injuries_ have been reported, which is a small relief amid this tragedy.

Ongoing Investigation

The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office is steadfast in its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the trench collapse. Updates are expected to follow as more information becomes available. For now, the focus remains on supporting Hollowman’s loved ones as they navigate through this devastating event.

As the community of Newberry County comes together to mourn and reflect on the life of Anthony Marquet Hollowman, it’s a stark reminder of the dangers that exist in the construction industry. Rules and safety protocols are there to protect workers, but this incident demonstrates how quickly things can turn tragic.

Final Thoughts

With an autopsy scheduled for later this week, the investigation will hopefully provide some answers and clarity. The loss of a life is always heart-wrenching, and for the residents of Prosperity, it emphasizes the importance of safety measures in construction work. Everyday heroes like Hollowman dedicate their lives to improving our infrastructure, and their sacrifices should never go unnoticed.

The community remains hopeful that safety inspections and regulations can be strengthened to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future. Until then, our thoughts are with Hollowman’s family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tragedy Strikes Newberry County: Construction Worker Dies
Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Construction Worker in Newberry County

Additional Resources

STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY

The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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