CHAPMAN, Maine — A Mapleton man is dead after a tractor accident at around noontime on Monday.

State police Detective Sgt. John Cote said Tuesday that the accident that killed Ronald Gamblin, 72, occurred on Chapman Road.

Cote said that Gamblin was helping his friend mow a field behind the residence with a 1940s style John Deere tractor with a rear-mounted 6-foot mowing deck.

At approximately 4 p.m. the friend went to check on Gamblin. He saw the tractor in the field but could not see Gamblin.

He continued around in the field area and circled back to the tractor and discovered Gamblin dead underneath the mowing deck.

Investigation revealed the tractor seat apparently had come loose and fallen off the back of the tractor, causing Gamblin to fall backwards into the path of the mower.

The tractor continued forward and Gamblin went under the mowing deck and suffered fatal injuries before the tractor came to rest.

Gamblin was pronounced dead at the scene.

Trooper Shawn Whalen investigated the incident.

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21 Comments

  1. My Deepest Condolences to the Family! I’ve had my close calls with trackers but it sounds like this gentleman had no chance. Tragic!

  2. That just completely horrifies me.  What an awful way to die and how painful for his family to know how scary his last moments had to have been. So tragic.

  3. My condolences to his family.
    BDN stating “found by a friend after a mowing accident caused as a result of equipment failure”, suffices, the audience engaged by a play by play description is really very small.

  4. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones as I could not imagine the horror of losing a parent or loved one in such a tragedy. No words can ever replace the pain…RIP Mr. Gamblin.

  5. My gosh. This tractor must have been used for years and always did right by Mr. Gamblin. Who would’ve foreseen such an unusual accident as the seat falling off? Condolences to his family and prayers for their comfort at this sad time.

  6. God, how terrible. I hope it was quick–maybe he was knocked unconscious before the tractor went over him. I certainly pray he was.

  7. I tell my 75 year old father to get rid of that old crap and buy something newer and safer,you can’t take your money with you depart this world at least enjoy it on yourself you earned that right,my deepest condolences go out to the gamblin family and their dearest friends,I offer a prayer for strength and guidance during this most tragic and somber time.

  8. I’ve never heard of such an accident happen like this, but I could certainly see how it could.    What a horrible thing.

    1.  I feel for your loss and wish to express my condolences. 

      I am curious as to what JD model he was operating?  I feel it is important to share this news as there are other JD owners whom may not be aware of this danger.

      Thankyou for your time.

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