ASHTON, IA (Northwestiowanow) – A fatal skid loader accident claimed the life of a local farmer Saturday afternoon northeast of Ashton.

Emergency crews responded to a rollover crash involving a New Holland L318 skid steer loader on Pierce Avenue near 220th Street. The incident occurred shortly after noon, roughly three miles from Ashton.

Authorities say 65-year-old Ronald Merlin Thole was operating the machine along the shoulder of the road when it tipped near the edge of a ditch and landed on its side. Thole was pronounced dead at the scene.

Damage to the skid loader is estimated at $3,000. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office says the case is still under investigation.