Fatal Work Accident In Cornwall

The death of a teenage farmhand who got trapped when the tractor he was driving fell into a slurry pit was a "tragic accident", police said.

Desperate efforts were made to try and rescue 16-year-old Jordan Orriss after the vehicle went into the mire near Padstow, Cornwall, at about 10.30am on Sunday.

The schoolboy's body was recovered by firefighters upon their arrival at Treginegar Farm, St Merryn.

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall police said: "A 16-year-old male farmhand was found deceased after the tractor he was driving toppled into a slurry put, trapping him under the slurry.

"Efforts were made to rescue him, but proved unsuccessful. The male was pronounced dead at the scene.

"At this stage police are treating this as a tragic accident. The investigation continues."
A Cornwall Fire and Rescue service spokesman said: "On arrival at the scene, which involved a slurry pit, there was a person confirmed deceased, crews recovered the unfortunate casualty."

Tracey Cleary, who runs holiday accommodation at nearby Treginegar Farmhouse and Cottages, expressed her shock on hearing the news.

Mrs Cleary said: "I didn't know him but the incident happened very close to where we live. It is absolutely terrible."

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David Urpeth, a work accident lawyer from law firm Irwin Mitchell said: “This was a terrible fatal accident at work.

“Whilst the circumstances of this tragic work accident are not fully known, it is clear that something went terribly wrong.

“Whilst helping families pursue their compensation claim following a fatal accident at work, I see the human suffering caused by these accidents. Such accidents represent a tragedy not only for the individual but for their family and friends.”

If you have lost a loved one due to an accident at work, our serious injury solicitors could help you claim compensation to help get the answers you deserve. Visit our fatal accident claims or accidents at work claims page for more information.