Investigation launched after third farmer dies in on-farm accident in Northern Ireland
15th August 2024
Police in Northern Ireland have launched an investigation into the death of a farmer and “much loved father of three” who died in a farm accident, following two other farm deaths over the past month.
Noel Boyd died suddenly on 7th August in Broughshane, Co Antrim, as a result of a “farm accident”, a death notice published by DJM Robinson & Son Funeral Directors reads.
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has confirmed that it is investigating the circumstances of the incident.
This tragic accident is the third farm-related tragedy in Northern Ireland in the last four weeks.
Poor safety record
Another farmer from Northern Ireland, Harold Andrew Gilmo, described by his family as a “devoted father of eight daughters” and a “cherished grandfather”, died last month on his farm on Fintona Road in Dromore, Co. Tyrone.
According to a death notice published by Armstrong Funeral Directors and Memorials, the farmer who was in his 70s had died “tragically on his farm” on Saturday, 20th July.
Police Service of Northern Ireland also confirmed that 55-year-old father-of-three Richard Ruddell was killed in an agricultural accident near Lurgan in Co Armagh on 26th July.
Despite accounting for only 1% of the working population, agriculture accounts for 20% of all deaths in the workplace, according to HSE.
Nearly 40% of farm workers killed were over the age of 65. Four members of the public were also killed, two of whom were children.
Read more farm safety news.
