Gerald Man Fatally Injured After Falling Into Sump Pit

A man was fatally injured July 17 after slipping in a sump pit at 18th South West Street in Gerald.

Gerald-Rosebud Fire and Ambulance, along with city employees, responded to the residence for a man that had slipped into well and fallen head first while repairing joints in the pit.

Gerald Police Chief Jim Helton reported that the 64-year-old man was making the repairs when he began to slide down into the well. He called for his wife, who ran to him and called 911.

Firefighters, EMS and city employees responded to the residence. A firefighter went into the pit, but was unable to rescue the man in time.

“We are all upset. This individual was a great man,” Helton said. “I’m so proud of the way everyone came together and worked to try and save the resident. It’s just tough for everyone involved.”

Technical rescue teams were called in to assist in the incident.

His name has not been released.