Derry Township, Westmoreland County, September 3, 2025
News Summary
A 61-year-old quarry worker lost his life in a tragic accident at a Derry Township mine when a 500-pound rock fell and trapped him underground. Emergency personnel responded promptly, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead two hours later. An investigation is underway to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the incident, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety in the mining industry.
Derry Township, Westmoreland County – A tragic accident at a local mine has resulted in the death of a 61-year-old quarry worker after he was trapped underground by a large rock. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon while James F. Gershman, from White Township in Indiana County, was working at Derry Construction, located on the 320 block of Quarry Road.
According to initial reports, a 500-pound rock fell and pinned Gershman’s legs while he was performing his job duties inside a mineshaft. Emergency personnel received the call shortly after the incident, and fire services reached the scene at around 3:45 p.m. Multiple first responders arrived on-site to assess the situation and provide assistance.
Despite the prompt response, Gershman was pronounced dead approximately two hours later, at 5:45 p.m. The Westmoreland County Coroner, Timothy Carson, has informed the public that the victim was an employee at the quarry and that officials are still working to determine the cause and manner of death pending autopsy and toxicology results.
Additionally, the Pennsylvania State Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident to uncover any contributing factors. Initially, a medical helicopter had been arranged to transport Gershman to a hospital; however, this was later canceled after responders assessed the severity of the situation.
Heidelberg Materials, the operator of the quarry, has not yet issued a statement regarding the incident or the safety protocols in place at the facility. This quarry is situated on the western slope of Chestnut Ridge and is in view of Torrance State Hospital.
The quarry’s operations involve heavy machinery and rock excavation, which poses inherent risks to workers. Incidents like this underline the importance of safety measures in mining operations, as such environments can often be hazardous. The victim’s unexpected passing is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by workers in this industry.
This is not the first fatal accident in Pennsylvania’s mining history, highlighting ongoing concerns about workplace safety standards and protocols within the mining sector. Investigations into similar incidents have often led to discussions about improving safety regulations to better protect workers in these high-risk environments.
Background on Westmoreland County Mining Operations
Westmoreland County has a long history of mining and quarry operations, which have played a significant role in the local economy. While these operations provide jobs and resources, they can also pose serious risks to workers when safety measures are not strictly adhered to. The mining industry requires careful oversight and continuous training to minimize accidents and ensure the health and safety of all employees.
Conclusion
The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and authorities aim to ascertain what led to this tragic event. As they work through the details, the community mourns the loss of a dedicated worker and reflects on the risks associated with mining and quarry operations.
FAQs
What caused the accident in the Derry Township mine?
A 500-pound rock fell onto James F. Gershman while he was working underground, trapping him.
What was the response time of emergency personnel?
Fire services arrived at the scene at approximately 3:45 p.m. after receiving reports of a trapped individual.
How was James F. Gershman pronounced dead?
Gershman was pronounced dead at approximately 5:45 p.m., about two hours after the accident occurred.
Is there an investigation into the incident?
Yes, the Pennsylvania State Police are investigating the circumstances that led to the tragic accident.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Tuesday Afternoon |
| Location | Derry Construction, 320 block of Quarry Road, Derry Township |
| Victim | James F. Gershman, 61, White Township, Indiana County |
| Weight of Rock | 500 pounds |
| Time of Death | 5:45 p.m. |
| Coroner | Timothy Carson |
| Responders Arrived | Approximately 3:45 p.m. |
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Additional Resources
- WTAE News
- Wikipedia: Mining Accident
- Indiana Gazette
- Google Search: Quarry Safety Protocols
- Tribune-Review
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mining
- WPXI News
- Google News: Workplace Safety
- WPXI Vote Now
- Google Scholar: Mine Safety Regulations
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