Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Local Worker in Newberry County

News Summary

A devastating trench collapse in Newberry County, South Carolina, has claimed the life of Anthony Marquet Hollowman, a 53-year-old worker. The incident occurred on February 18, 2025, while Hollowman was installing a water line. Despite the swift mobilization of rescue teams, efforts transitioned from rescue to recovery as the situation heightened in complexity. The local community is mourning the loss, marking this as a rare construction site tragedy.

Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Life of Local Worker in Newberry County

Newberry County, South Carolina, is reeling from a tragic accident that occurred on a Monday morning, February 18, 2025, around 10:50 a.m. The community is grieving the loss of Anthony Marquet Hollowman, a 53-year-old resident of Bishopville, who lost his life in a devastating trench collapse while working on a water line installation.

The Incident Unfolds

The unfortunate event took place in the 7700 block of Macedonia Church Road, near the town of Prosperity. Hollowman was performing his duties, working diligently on the installation of a new water line when the trench he was occupying suddenly collapsed, burying him beneath several feet of soil. Witnesses were left in shock as they watched the grave accident unfold.

Rescue Efforts in Full Swing

As news of the collapse spread, multiple trench rescue teams from Newberry County and neighboring communities quickly mobilized in a race against time to save Hollowman. Emergency responders from various organizations, including Newberry County EMS, Fairview Fire, Lake Murray Rescue, Columbia Fire Department, and Lexington County Fire Services, rushed to the scene. Their combined efforts were commendable as they worked tirelessly to free him from the wreckage.

Transitioning from Rescue to Recovery

Despite the best efforts of these highly trained rescuers, the situation took a heartbreaking turn. As time passed and more complications arose, the operation shifted from a hope-filled rescue to a somber recovery mission. The trench, estimated to be about six feet deep, proved to be too hazardous for a successful rescue, leaving the team with no choice but to transition their efforts.

Looking into the Cause

The Newberry County Coroner confirmed the identity of the deceased as Anthony Marquet Hollowman, and an autopsy has been scheduled later this week to determine the precise cause of death. Meanwhile, an investigation is underway to understand the circumstances surrounding the trench collapse. Detectives are actively considering several potential factors that may have contributed to this tragic event, such as recent rainfall and the overall stability of the roadbed.

A Rare Incident

This kind of construction site tragedy is an exceptionally rare occurrence in Newberry County. Sheriff Lee Foster, who has served for over 30 years, noted that this incident marks only the second trench accident he has witnessed in his extensive career. While construction sites inherently carry some level of risk, the loss of life in such accidents deeply affects the community and reminds everyone of the importance of safety precautions.

Community Condolences

In the wake of this devastating event, Daniel Quattlebaum, a representative of the Newberry County Water and Sewer Authority, reached out to express heartfelt condolences and prayers for Hollowman’s family, friends, and co-workers. The entire community stands in solidarity during this difficult time, mourning not only the loss of a dedicated worker but also the impacts of such a tragic accident on so many lives.

Conclusion

As Newberry County grapples with this heartbreaking event, the focus now shifts to supporting each other and ensuring that safety regulations are revisited and reinforced, so that such tragedies can be prevented in the future. The community extends thoughts and prayers to all affected by this unforeseen tragedy, reminding everyone that life can change in an instant and urging one another to cherish each moment spent with loved ones.

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HERE Resources

Tragedy Strikes in Newberry County: Construction Worker Killed in Trench Collapse

Additional Resources

• WLTX
• The State
• WIS TV
• Fox Carolina
• Wikipedia: Trench Collapses