Fatal Farm Accident Under Investigation in McCord's Crossroads Community - WEIS

MCCORD'S CROSSROADS– Barry Kerr died Sunday night following a farm accident in the McCord's Crossroads community. The Cherokee County Coroner's Office announced his death in a Monday release. The incident began as a missing-person report at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 6. At that time, the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office responded to a residence in the community after Kerr had not returned home. According to the release, Kerr had reportedly been bushhogging with a skid steer. Search Effort Brings Agencies and Community Together First, the Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the McCord's Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department, Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency, and Cherokee County Rescue Squad. Family members, neighbors, and first responders then began organizing a search for Kerr. Together, searchers used ATVs, drones, and four-wheel-drive vehicles to cover the area. Additionally, the Spring Garden Volunteer Fire Department responded with its rescue ATV. Shortly after the search began, crews found the skid steer overturned in a body of water. The discovery came before many of the responding personnel had arrived, the release stated. Once crews located the machine, first responders immediately began extrication efforts to gain access to its operator. Meanwhile, the release said Floyd EMS received a dispatch to the scene. Coroner Confirms Death and Continuing Investigation The Coroner's Office responded and worked alongside first responders during the recovery effort. 'Tragically, Mr. Kerr succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident and was pronounced deceased at the scene,' Cherokee County Coroner Paul McDonald said. 'Our office is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to the family and all those affected by this tragic loss.' The release did not identify additional circumstances or explain how the skid steer overturned. Officials Thank Responders and Community Members McDonald and the Coroner's Office also thanked the first responders, agencies, family members, and neighbors involved in the search and recovery. 'Your dedication, teamwork, and willingness to serve during such a difficult situation are deeply appreciated,' the office said. Likewise, McCord's Crossroads Fire Chief Rich Lindsey praised everyone who joined the response. 'We are grateful for the quick response and efforts of all the responding agencies, family members, and neighbors who came together to search for and assist the victim,' Lindsey said. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time.' The Coroner's Office said its heart remains especially with the Kerr family as they face the days ahead. Finally, the office asked residents to keep the family, their loved ones, and everyone affected in their thoughts and prayers. LOCAL NEWS