Dearrius Weston, Authorities Identify Victim in Fatal Landfill Accident in Transylvania County.
BREVARD, NORTH CAROLINA — Authorities have identified the man who died in a fatal accident at the Transylvania County Landfill last week.
The Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a news release on Feb. 11 that the victim was 21-year-old Dearrius Weston, from Arkansas.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the preliminary investigation indicates that Weston was pinned to the ground by a large piece of equipment while working at the landfill. Emergency responders arrived on the scene quickly and initiated life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, Weston was pronounced dead at the scene.
“This is a tragic and unfortunate accident,” Transylvania County Sheriff Chuck Owenby said in the release. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Weston’s family and with all those affected by this incident.”
Authorities said Weston was a contract worker involved in the final stages of a landfill expansion project. The project, located at 500 Howell Road in Brevard, includes approximately six acres of lateral expansion at the existing county landfill site. Access to the site is available from Howell Road off Old Toxaway Road or U.S. 64.
Officials emphasized that the incident is being treated as a workplace accident, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy remains ongoing. Law enforcement and safety personnel are reviewing equipment, worksite conditions, and procedures to determine what led to the fatal accident.
The Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional information to come forward to assist investigators. Authorities said that cooperation from witnesses can help provide a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the accident.
Local officials and community members have expressed their condolences to Weston’s family and colleagues. They acknowledged the sudden loss and the impact it has had on those who worked alongside him and were present at the landfill.
Workplace safety remains a top priority for local authorities. Sheriff Owenby and other officials stressed the importance of following safety protocols and using caution when operating heavy machinery to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Transylvania County Landfill expansion project is an important development for the community, and county leaders have said they are committed to continuing the work while ensuring that safety measures are strictly enforced.
As the investigation continues, officials have promised to provide updates when more information is available. Law enforcement, along with other relevant agencies, is conducting a thorough review of the accident to determine contributing factors and any steps needed to prevent future incidents.
Community members are encouraged to keep Weston’s family and friends in their thoughts during this difficult time. The Sheriff’s Office reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a careful and respectful investigation while supporting those affected by the incident.
Anyone with information regarding the accident is asked to contact the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities emphasized that public tips and observations could be valuable in helping complete the investigation and provide closure for all involved.
The tragic death of Dearrius Weston has underscored the risks associated with heavy equipment operations and the importance of safety vigilance at worksites.
