A logging accident Friday claimed the life of Masonville Highway Superintendent Duane Gifford.
The 37-year-old father of three was working in a wooded area off Carroll Hill Road in the town of Tompkins when he was crushed by a large tree, according to a news release from state police.
The tree fell on Gifford's back and suffocated him at about 3 p.m., troopers said.
A part-time logger, Gifford was the highway superintendent for Masonville since June 1997. Before that, he worked as deputy highway superintendent and as an employee in the department.
His death came as a shock to the town of Masonville, said town councilman and deputy town supervisor George Denys.
"He was the kind of guy that everybody likes," Denys said.
The Trout Creek Emergency Squad was called to the accident site and Gifford was pronounced dead by Delaware County Medical Examiner Dr. Richard Ucci.
Troopers on Sunday had no additional information and said the investigator who handled the case was not on duty.
"It's just a horrible tragedy," Denys said.
As a young highway superintendent, Gifford had a "trial by fire," Denys said.
"He handled it well," Denys said.
Gifford went on to serve more than 10 years as the elected head of the highway department.
Masonville town Supervisor Craig DuMond said Gifford's town truck with black mourning bands covering the town seal on each door is parked in front of the town hall.
"A number of people have placed flowers there already," DuMond said. "The Masonville community has lost a truly great man to this horrific accident. We are still shocked over here. This was a guy who was a very honest, hardworking, respected member of the town."
Gifford was a 1988 graduate of Sidney High School and was know for his involvement in many Masonville-area activities including Peewee and Little League baseball.
"He participated in a lot of community events," Denys said.
DuMond said he will consult with the town's attorney today to determine what options the town has in filling Gifford's position.
"Right now we are dealing with the grieving process," DuMond said. "We want to make sure his family is taken care of."
The board has a regularly scheduled meeting Wednesday.
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