78-year-old man killed in farming accident near Urbana

UPDATE @ 4:25 p.m.:

A 78-year-old Urbana man was killed in a farming accident on U.S. 36 east of Urbana.

Michael Russell was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, Champaign County Deputy Erich Hopkins said in a prepared statement.

Russell was checking a John Deere field planter for an airline leak.

“While under the planter, the equipment released, entrapping him,” deputies said.

Deputies are continuing to investigate the accident.

UPDATE @ 3:45 p.m.: 

Emergency crews remain on the scene after responding to reports of a farming accident on U.S. 36 east of Urbana.

The condition of the victim was not released by investigators.

Our crew remains on the scene and we’ll update this story with the latest as it becomes available.

FIRST REPORT

Emergency crews are responding to a report of a serious farming accident on U.S. 36 east of Urbana.

Initial reports indicated the accident was reported in the 3700 block of U.S. 36 east just before 2 p.m.

We’re working to learn more about the incident.

About the Author