Quarry at 32306 S. California Road, Melvern, Kan. Google Maps image.

MELVERN, Kan. – Osage County Sheriff Laurie Dunn has reported a man was killed in a rock quarry accident Friday afternoon near Melvern, Kan.

In a press release, Dunn said the sheriff’s office received a call at 2:29 p.m. June 19, 2020, reporting an accident at a Harshman Construction rock quarry at 32306 S. California Road, near Melvern.

Upon arrival at the scene, emergency crews found Frank J. Rockers Jr., 68, Emporia, Kan., had been taking samples at the base of a large chat pile when the pile gave way, burying him.

The accident was witnessed by two workers, who immediately began efforts to recover Rockers. Fire rescue units also began rescue efforts upon their arrival, and Rockers was eventually removed and pronounced deceased.

Responding at the scene were Osage County Sheriff’s deputies, Osage County Fire District No. 3, and Osage County EMS.

This story updated 10:06 p.m. June 20, 2020, to report victim’s identity.