• Worker dies after being trapped while unloading soybeans in a silo
• Left behind a wife and four children

A man was killed in an accident inside a grain silo in Newton, USA, according to a statement from the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office.

The statement explained that the incident occurred while three men were leveling and unloading soybeans inside a large silo, when the contents suddenly shifted, trapping one of them and causing his death on the spot, while the other two men escaped unharmed.

The victim was identified as Mark Klassen, 37 years old.

He left behind behind his parents, Dallas and Jerry, three brothers—Brad, Derek, and Corey—his wife, Kristy Harder, and their four children: Dayton (9), Carly (7), Emmy (5), and Brian (3).

His obituary noted that Mark was devoted to his family and committed to his work, serving on the Newton Township Council and the Soil Conservation Board, demonstrating a clear passion for agriculture.

Being trapped in grain silos is considered one of the most dangerous hazards in American farming, though it is often preventable.

According to Purdue University statistics, there were approximately 27 grain entrapment incidents in 2023, resulting in 16 deaths, while in 2024 the numbers rose to 51 incidents and 22 fatalities.