PERRY TOWNSHIP — Authorities say a 22-year-old township man died in the early hours of August 9 after being struck by a skid steer loader on private property the night before.

The victim, identified by the Stark County Coroner’s Office as Cole E. Parker, was transported to Aultman Hospital by township paramedics following the accident.

He was pronounced dead at 4:08 a.m., according to Harry Campbell, chief investigator for the coroner’s office. Campbell confirmed that members of Parker’s family were at the hospital when he passed away.

Emergency responders were first called at 11:46 p.m. on August 8 to a property on Erie Street SW. The call reported a serious injury involving a skid steer loader — a compact, engine-powered machine often used for digging, lifting, and moving materials.

Perry Township police officers and paramedics arrived quickly, providing immediate medical aid to Parker before transporting him to the hospital. Campbell said Parker was not operating the skid steer at the time of the incident.

He suffered traumatic injuries to his torso, which proved fatal despite the efforts of emergency personnel. The coroner’s office has scheduled an examination of Parker’s body for August 11 to determine the official cause and manner of death.

Officials emphasized that the property where the incident occurred was not an active construction site. Details about the exact circumstances leading to the accident have not been disclosed. Campbell referred further questions about the investigation to the Perry Township Police Department, which is handling the case.

Police have not released information about who was operating the skid steer at the time or how the accident occurred. It remains unclear whether the machine was in use for landscaping, property maintenance, or another purpose.

A skid steer loader, while smaller than many types of construction equipment, can be extremely dangerous if not used carefully. The machine’s compact frame and powerful hydraulics make it versatile for a range of tasks but also pose risks in confined spaces or around people on foot. Accidents involving such equipment can result in severe injuries, particularly when contact occurs with the loader arms, bucket, or moving wheels.

Perry Township police have not said whether any citations or charges are being considered, noting that the investigation is ongoing. Investigators will likely review the machine’s operation at the time, visibility conditions, and any safety measures in place.

News of Parker’s death has deeply affected the local community. Friends and family members have begun sharing memories and tributes on social media, describing him as a kind, hardworking young man with a bright future ahead. Many posts express shock at the suddenness of his passing and offer condolences to his family.

The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety when working near heavy machinery, even outside of formal job sites. Private property use of equipment like skid steers is common for farming, landscaping, or home projects, but accidents can occur in an instant.

Authorities are expected to release more details once the coroner’s examination is complete and the police investigation progresses. For now, the community mourns the loss of a life taken far too soon, as Parker’s loved ones prepare to say their final goodbyes.