A 57-year-old Elma man was killed early Monday afternoon when he was pinned under a tractor that rolled on top of him near Montesano, according to Steve Shumate, Chief Criminal Deputy with the Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office.

James S. Miller was operating a Kubota KH-50 excavator near a hillside on property belonging to a relative, located in the 200 block of Minkler Road, which cuts east of State Route 107 just south of the Chehalis River bridge. “The excavator gave way and rolled, pinning Miller under the piece of equipment,” said Shumate. He was discovered by a family member who immediately called 911, around 12:15 p.m.

“Upon arrival of deputies as well as the aid crew, it was determined the man was deceased,” said Shumate. “Our condolences go out to the family and friends of James S. Miller for this very tragic accident.”