Tragic Farming Accident: Young Man Killed in Tractor Mishap

A 21-year-old man tragically lost his life in Co Antrim while driving a tractor with a faulty trailer that lacked working brakes, an inquest revealed. Summary of the Incident

Bradley Beck, from Carrickfergus, was fatally injured while spreading manure in a field near Gobbins Road, Islandmagee. The inquest, held at Antrim courthouse, described the severe and unsurvivable chest injuries he sustained, likely caused by the trailer or the tractor rolling over him. Eyewitness Testimony

The first responder, a neighbor tending to sheep, found Beck unresponsive with severe injuries and attempted CPR without success. Inspectors' Findings

An inspector highlighted that one of the brakes on the trailer had seized, rendering it ineffective. The lack of connection between the trailer and the tractor's brakes further contributed to the tragedy. Expert Opinion

The health and safety inspector explained that Beck likely lost control while descending a slope due to the trailer's improper load distribution and defective brakes. Pathologist's Report

The post mortem revealed severe chest injuries as the cause of death, with damages to his heart, lungs, and ribs. The absence of a seat belt led to Beck being thrown from the tractor during the accident.