Authorities are investigating separate tractor incidents this week that tragically killed two older farmers.
In Bertrand Township, Michigan, a 78-year-old man lost control of his tractor around 2:30 p.m. Wednesday along U.S. 12 near Franklin Street. The tractor rolled over, and despite first responders’ efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene, according to mlive Michigan. The Michigan State Police are continuing the investigation and reminded operators to drive slowly, understand a tractor’s center of gravity, exercise caution on slopes, and avoid ditches and embankments.
Meanwhile, in rural Casey County, Kentucky, 80-year-old Garland Davis died after a suspected medical emergency caused him to fall from a moving tractor around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday on Green River Valley Road, about eight miles from Liberty. The tractor continued forward and struck a home’s back porch. Funeral services are planned at Green River Valley Separate Baptist Church, WKYT reported.
Officials in both states emphasized the importance of safety during late-season fieldwork, including:
-
Using seatbelts and ROPS (rollover protective structures) when available.
-
Avoiding steep side-slopes and unstable terrain.
-
Minimizing distractions around farm equipment.
Programs such as the National ROPS Rebate Program help farmers retrofit older tractors, but authorities stressed that training, equipment upgrades, and maintenance are crucial to preventing rollover accidents. Investigations show even experienced operators remain vulnerable when working on uneven terrain, in low light, or near embankments.
