MARSHFIELD, MASS. (WHDH) - An investigation is underway after a 21-year-old Marshfield man was killed in an ATV crash on Wednesday, authorities announced.
Officers responding to a report of an unconscious man bleeding from his head and neck near the Bridle Path Trail around 2:45 p.m. found the victim next to a red Honda ATV with its engine still running, according to Plymouth District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz.
The victim, who authorities identified as Anthony Gill, was later pronounced dead at South Shore Hospital.
A cable used to block the path to illegal dumpers and those riding dirt bikes and ATVs is believed to be involved in the crash.
“It’s my understanding that it has been up for a number of years,” Police Chief Philip Tavares said. “There is a padlock on it. It appears to be there to stop vehicles from going out there to dump trash or ride illegally. It does not appear to be any type of device set to hurt a human being.”
Heartbroken friends gathered at the growing memorial in the afternoon.
“He was the best friend that you could ever know,” one mourner said. “He was like an older brother to me.”
For now, loved ones wrestling with this sudden loss are remembering Gill as a young man with an infectious smile.
“He was an amazing kid. He had so much potential. More than he gave himself,” one friend said. “He deserved the world.”
State troopers assigned to the district attorney’s are assisting Marshfield police with the investigation.
No foul play is believed to be involved.
“We want people to do things safely and enjoy recreation outside,” Tavares said. “But do it legally. We just feel terrible for this family and for this young man.”
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