Ridgefield teen dies in log splitter accident in South Salem
Brandon Q. Gmelin, of Ridgefield, was attempting to move a log splitter around 6:30 p.m. at a home in South Salem when the equipment began to roll down a slope and hit him, according to New York State Police.
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An 18-year-old Ridgefield man died Wednesday evening after being struck by a log splitter at a private residence in Westchester County, authorities said.
Brandon Q. Gmelin, of Ridgefield, was attempting to move a log splitter around 6:30 p.m. at a home in South Salem when the equipment began to roll down a slope and hit him, according to New York State Police.
Troopers from the Somers barracks responded to a 911 call along with investigators from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Town of Lewisboro Police Department.
Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, Gmelin was pronounced dead at the scene.
The log splitter had been delivered earlier in the day for scheduled landscaping work, police said.
No signs of foul play are suspected, but the investigation remains ongoing.
Ridgefield Public Schools' superintendent issued a statement Friday morning:
It is with profound sorrow that I share the devastating news of the passing of one of our students, Brandon Gmelin, who tragically lost his life in an accident yesterday. Brandon, a cherished member of our Ridgefield High School community, graduated this past June with the Class of 2025. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering friendship touched the lives of many, and his loss will be felt deeply across RHS and the greater Ridgefield community. We extend our deepest condolences to Brandon’s family and his many friends. Our thoughts and hearts are with them during this unimaginably difficult time.
