Former Knox Co. Coroner dies in accident

A former Knox County Coroner and local businessman lost his life Sunday in a freak accident after the lawn mower he was riding went over an embankment and landed on top of him.

Jerry Garland was mowing in the Bimble area on a zero turn John Deere mower when the mower began to slide uncontrollably on a sloped area, eventually falling off the embankment, coming to rest on top of him. Garland received extensive head and internal body injuries caused by the mower landing on top of him.

Garland was pronounced dead by current Knox County Coroner Mike Blevins.

Garland served several terms as Coroner starting in the late 90’s and was the owner of several businesses including G&M Oil Company.

Kentucky State Police Detective Mitch Williams is continuing the investigation. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced at a later time.