POQUOSON (AP) -- State and federal authorities will investigate the death of a high school freshman who was killed in an accident involving a wood chipper.
Poquoson Police Chief Cliff Bowen says Frank Anthony Gornik, 14, was part of a three-person crew working Sunday to remove tree limbs and debris from a home following the Nor'easter.
Bowen says Gornik was using a shovel to drop debris into the wood chipper's hopper when the tool apparently became caught in the machine's blades, dragging him in and killing him instantly.
The company, Old Dominion Tree and Lawn Care of Poquoson is reportedly owned by Gornik's uncle and caregiver.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour division is set to investigate the incident.
Grief counselors were at the school Monday as friends and classmates dealt with the horrible news.
"It's really sad and really quiet in the school. Like, nobody is really talking. Everybody is really upset about it," said Katoynee Obgurn.
"It was very sad. When I found out about it, I cried a lot during the first periond because it was just shocking news and I couldn't believe it," stated Dayton Wells, who says he'd become friends with Gornick since they took science together.
"He was very nice. He would have done anything for anyone. He was probably the most caring person I've ever met. He was a great friend and I'll miss him a lot," Well added.
The school day at Poquoson High began with a moment of silence.
On Wednesday, Hendron Tree Service established a memorial fund for Gornik's family.
Donations can be made at any Old Point National Bank.
"We intend to give the money to the family to help them with any expenses they may obtain from this tragedy," said Wanda Hendron.
