HOMEWOOD, Ala. — Authorities have identified the man who tragically lost his life in a lawnmower accident last week near Interstate 65. The victim, 35-year-old Christopher Tovaris Collins, was working for a private landscaping company contracted by the city of Homewood when the incident occurred on Thursday, April 4.
According to the Homewood Police Department, officers were called to the scene around 1:37 p.m. after receiving a report of an accident near the northbound off-ramp of I-65 at Oxmoor Road. When first responders arrived, they found Collins had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Initial investigations indicate Collins was operating a lawnmower when it overturned, leading to his death. While the exact cause of the rollover remains unclear, authorities are examining whether the terrain or potential equipment failure contributed to the accident. So far, no foul play is suspected, and the incident appears to be a tragic work-related accident.
Collins was performing routine roadside maintenance, a job that often requires workers to navigate difficult and uneven terrain near busy highways. The location of the accident — an area known for sloped embankments — may have posed additional challenges. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence to determine the exact sequence of events.
The landscaping company involved and city officials have not yet issued public statements but are expected to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation. It is currently unknown whether any workplace safety agencies will be reviewing the incident or if new safety procedures will be considered as a result.
News of Collins’ passing has deeply saddened the Homewood community and those in the landscaping industry. His death underscores the potential hazards faced by workers tasked with maintaining public spaces and roadways — jobs that are essential but often dangerous.
As the Homewood Police Department continues its investigation, they are encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Meanwhile, Collins’ family, friends, and co-workers are mourning the loss of a man who was simply doing his job when tragedy struck.