Anderson County, SC — A 58-year-old man tragically lost his life in a freak accident earlier this week after being struck by a falling tree limb while performing yard work. The Anderson County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Alan Leland Smith, a resident of the Iva area in South Carolina.

According to local authorities, the incident occurred on Thursday, May 9, 2025, at a property located in the rural parts of Iva, which Smith had inherited. He was reportedly clearing the area and engaged in routine maintenance when a large tree limb unexpectedly fell, fatally injuring him.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, but despite their efforts, Smith was pronounced dead upon their arrival. The Anderson County Coroner’s Office later confirmed that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the upper body, and the manner of death was ruled accidental.

“This is a deeply unfortunate accident and a reminder of the hidden dangers that can come with outdoor work, especially on older properties with mature or weakened trees,” said a representative from the coroner’s office.

Community in Mourning

Smith’s sudden death has left the Iva community in shock. Friends and neighbors described him as a “hard-working, kind-hearted man” who was deeply attached to the family land he was maintaining.

“He loved being outside and keeping up the old property. It’s just heartbreaking,” one neighbor shared.

Safety Concerns Around Yard Work and Tree Maintenance

This incident sheds light on the dangers posed by large, overgrown trees—particularly those that have not been professionally assessed. Falling limbs can result from structural weaknesses, rot, heavy winds, or simple decay, even on seemingly calm days.

In similar tragic circumstances earlier this year, 20-year-old Clemson University student Ethan Ackerman was fatally injured while clearing tree debris. The previously uprooted tree he was working around suddenly sprang back upright, pinning him and causing fatal injuries. (Source: People)

These back-to-back incidents highlight the need for increased awareness of outdoor safety practices during yard work or storm cleanup efforts.

Tree Safety Tips for Homeowners

The U.S. Forest Service and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advise the public to follow safety protocols when engaging in tree trimming or outdoor maintenance:

• Always inspect trees for cracks, leaning trunks, dead limbs, or other signs of instability.
• Do not attempt to cut large limbs or trees without professional help.
• Be aware of surroundings including electrical wires and other structures.
• Wear protective gear like helmets, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
• Use proper tools and ladders and never work alone if handling hazardous tasks.

Official Response and Support

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has not released any broader advisories following the accident but encourages residents to remain cautious during high-risk tasks. Support services are available through local agencies for families impacted by traumatic events such as this.

For those in Anderson County, grief counseling and support can be accessed via the Anderson County Human Services department.

Final Words

Alan Leland Smith’s death is a stark reminder of how life can change in a moment. As families across the U.S. begin spring and summer clean-up efforts, experts urge everyone to take tree-related risks seriously and invest in safety or professional help whenever possible.

Smith is survived by his two children and three grandchildren, who have asked for privacy as they grieve.

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