A quiet Thursday afternoon in Argenta turned tragic when a local man lost his life in a workplace accident involving a street leaf vacuum. William Whitsel, 50, of Decatur, was pronounced dead at Decatur Memorial Hospital after being run over by a trailer while riding on a truck clearing leaves along neighborhood streets.
According to the Macon County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 3 p.m. to the 100 block of Claremont Street following reports of an injury. When they arrived, they found the truck and trailer that had been operating in the area. Investigators say Whitsel fell from the truck and was run over by the wheels of the trailer, suffering life-threatening injuries. Despite the swift response and medical care, he could not be saved.
Family, friends, and neighbors are now left grieving the sudden loss of a man remembered as hardworking, dependable, and kind. Those who knew Whitsel describe him as someone who approached his work with care and dedication, making his death all the more shocking for the local community.
“This is a tragedy for our community,” a local resident said. “William was always willing to lend a hand, and it’s heartbreaking that something like this could happen so suddenly.”
Authorities emphasize that the incident remains under investigation, and no additional details have been released at this time. The Macon County Sheriff’s Office is reviewing the circumstances to determine exactly how the accident occurred.
In the meantime, community members are coming together to support Whitsel’s family in their grief. The loss serves as a somber reminder of how quickly life can change, even during everyday work or routine activities.
Neighbors and colleagues alike are holding Whitsel in their thoughts, honoring his life and the impact he had on those around him. In the wake of this tragedy, the Argenta community is united in mourning, extending condolences to loved ones and reflecting on the fragile nature of life.
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