Fatal silo accident at Branstad Farms investigated

GARNER, IOWA – An investigation is underway at Branstad Farms near Forest City after a man fell down a silo and died.

On the October 3, 2016, at 9:02 AM, the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and the Hancock County Medical Examiner’s office investigated an accident at Branstad Farms, owner Monroe Branstad, 3020 Highway 69, south of Forest City. An individual fell down an enclosed silo chute. The victim was pronounced dead on the scene. The deceased individual was identified as 46-year-old Julian Santos Martinez of Buffalo Center.

Evidence on scene suggests that Martinez accidentally fell from a height estimated to be 30 feet and died from injuries sustained from the fall. Investigation into the matter continues.

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and Hancock County Medical Examiner’s Office were assisted by the Forest City Ambulance Service, Forest City Fire Department, Forest City Police Department, Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, and Mercy Air Life.