In the heart of Salem, New Hampshire, a vibrant community was struck by grief on Thursday, August 14, 2025, when a workplace accident claimed the life of Marc Glaser, a 45-year-old landscaper known for his dedication and hard work. The incident, described by authorities as a “tragic accident,” unfolded in the bustling business district along Route 28, leaving residents and coworkers reeling from the sudden loss of a beloved local.
It was just after 1:20 p.m. when emergency responders raced to the parking lot of the Service Credit Union at 158 North Broadway. There, amidst a tangle of overhead power lines, they found Glaser lifeless in the bucket of a hydraulic manlift. He and another worker had been pruning trees and bushes, a routine task that took a devastating turn when their equipment made contact with live power lines. The second worker, whose name has not been released, suffered severe electrical burns and was urgently transported to the burn unit at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where he continues to fight for recovery.
Salem Assistant Fire Chief Kennett Colby confirmed the harrowing details, painting a picture of a scene that shook the tight-knit community. The manlift, positioned near a junction of power lines feeding both Route 28 and the nearby business area, became a conduit for tragedy. As news spread, the area around a neighboring bank and gas station was swiftly evacuated, with Liberty Utilities stepping in to secure the site and ensure public safety.
On Friday, the Salem Police Department released a heartfelt statement, officially identifying Marc Glaser and extending condolences to his grieving family and friends. Glaser, a Salem resident, was remembered as a hardworking individual whose presence brightened the lives of those around him. His untimely death has left a void in the community, where he was known for his commitment to his craft and his connection to the town he called home.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the New Hampshire Office of the Chief Medical Examiner have joined local authorities in a thorough investigation to uncover the precise circumstances of the incident. OSHA, tasked with ensuring workplace safety, is examining whether proper protocols were followed, with up to six months to determine if citations will be issued. The investigation aims to provide answers to a community searching for clarity amidst sorrow.
Authorities are calling on anyone with information to come forward, urging witnesses to contact Detective Jake Genest of the Salem Police Department. As the investigation continues, Salem mourns a life cut short, rallying around Glaser’s loved ones and the injured worker still battling in Boston. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who work tirelessly to maintain the beauty and order of our communities, leaving an indelible mark on the heart of Salem.