SWU employee dies in tragic accident
David J. Summey, 35, a member of the university maintenance staff, was tragically killed today as a result of a fall into a sinkhole in a county roadway adjacent to the campus.
Earlier in the afternoon a five to six foot diameter sinkhole appeared in the roadway at which time the road was immediately closed by the highway department. Extensive area rainfall in recent days was attributed as potential cause. Witnesses indicate that Summey went to inspect the site when apparently he stepped into the sinkhole accidentally and disappeared from below the surface. Emergency rescue teams responded quickly, however, the rescue was complicated by unstable conditions below the surface of the resulting 15 foot deep hole.
Summey, a 1991 graduate of Southern Wesleyan recently completed twelve years of service as an electrician for the university. The entire university community is saddened by this tragic loss and extends deepest condolences to his wife, family and co-workers. David deeply loved the university and the university loved him. University President David J. Spittal stated “We are broken hearted as a university community and are deeply grieving the loss of a faithful worker and friend to all who knew him. As a Christian community of faith, we join in prayer and support for his family during this tragedy.”