Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A Springfield Park District employee is dead after what the park district police chief calls a “tragic accident” at Lincoln Greens Golf Course.
Chief Patrick Murphy told WTAX/CapitolCityNow what he calls a “workplace accident” happened around 10:30 a.m. Thursday.
Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon says the 51-year-old man was pronounced dead at the hospital about an hour later, after the victim was found underneath a tractor.
An investigation continues, but “There is no reason to believe that it is anything but a tragic accident,” said Murphy.
“It was a shocking piece of news — terrible and shocking,” said Murphy, who indicated he knew the victim personally.
The name of the victim is not yet being released. An autopsy is scheduled for Friday morning.
Murphy praised first responders who performed “rigorous at-scene rescue efforts,” including Springfield Police officers and firefighters, as well as ambulance personnel.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred at Lincoln Greens Golf Course today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family,” said a statement from the Springfield Park District.
