An 81-year-old Knox County man, William Mills, of Gray, was pronounced dead following a tragic accident on his farm Tuesday afternoon, according to reports. The Times Tribune stated that Mills was operating a tractor and was in the process of pulling a trailer when he got off to open a gate. Although the tractor was set in neutral with the parking brake on, it was the weight of the trailer that tragically caused it to roll back, pinning Mills against a post.

A call was placed to 911 at around 12:39 p.m. by Mills' neighbor after discovering the scene. Emergency responders including Knox EMS, Knox County Emergency Management, Bailey Switch Fire Department, and Knox County Coroner’s Office were present at the location, as noted by the WYMT.

Mills' unexpected death has shaken the local community where farming is a common livelihood for many, the Knox County Sheriff’s Department indicated the incident took place in a cow pasture, according to their release obtained by WVLT. The coroner confirmed the death at the scene, marking a somber reminder of the hazards that accompany agricultural work.