A quiet Thursday morning in Mechanicsville, Virginia, was shattered when 72-year-old Gary Wayne Anderson was fatally injured after being run over by a vehicle on private property. The incident occurred in the 9200 block of Haska Court, prompting a swift response from the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office and emergency services.
Deputies arrived to find Anderson partially pinned beneath a vehicle in his own driveway. Fire and EMS personnel worked quickly to lift the vehicle and extricate him. Despite being conscious at the scene, Anderson suffered severe injuries and was transported to VCU Medical Center in Richmond. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
The sheriff’s office identified Anderson as a longtime resident of Mechanicsville. Neighbors described him as a friendly and helpful man who had lived in the community for many years. “Gary was the kind of person who always stopped to chat and lend a hand,” one resident said. “It’s heartbreaking to hear this happened right here in our neighborhood.”
Investigators believe the incident was accidental, with no signs of foul play. Evidence at the scene and home security camera footage suggest that the tragedy occurred while Anderson or someone nearby was maneuvering the vehicle on private property. The exact sequence of events remains unclear, and authorities are continuing to review physical evidence and speak with witnesses to piece together what happened.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that incidents like this are rare but serve as a somber reminder of the dangers vehicles can pose, even in familiar surroundings such as driveways and yards. Officials have urged residents to exercise extra caution when operating or moving vehicles on uneven or residential terrain.
As the community of Mechanicsville mourns the loss of one of its longtime residents, law enforcement officials have expressed their condolences to Anderson’s family and promised a thorough investigation to ensure all circumstances surrounding the accident are fully understood.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents to always be vigilant when operating vehicles, even on private property. Simple precautions, such as ensuring the vehicle is properly secured and being aware of surroundings, can prevent such devastating accidents. The loss of Gary Wayne Anderson serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety and awareness in our everyday lives.