Teen killed in wood chipper accident

POQUOSON, Va. (WAVY) - Grief counselors were at Poquoson High School Monday to help students deal with the sudden, tragic loss of one of their classmates.

Fourteen-year old Frank Anthony Gornik of Poquoson died in a wood chipper accident Sunday evening.

Poquoson Police Chief Cliff Bowen told WAVY.com, Gornik was working with Old Dominion Tree and Lawn Care Service at a home on Wagner Road.

"They were doing some tree trimming and using a chipper machine to grind up some of the debris," Bowen said. "Apparently one of the members of the crew was shoveling debris into the back of the chipper, at which time the shovel he was using got caught in the blades and pulled him into the machine."

Gornik died at the scene, Bowen said.

"Based on everything we know this is an accident," said Chief Bowen. "It's one the most tragic accidents I've seen in my 25 years of law enforcement."

Reached by phone at his home Sunday night, Poquoson High School Principal Bernard Wright said, "This was a tragic accident. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this young man."

"Our crisis team will be there [Monday] with our counselors and counselors from other schools," said Principal Wright.

Wright deferred further questions to the school district spokesperson.

Tuesday, a few of the first responders arriving at last Sunday's tragic accident where Gornik was killed, will get professional counseling services during a critical incident stress debriefing.

Deputy Chief Michael Bryant of Poquoson Fire Rescue said,"If its bothering them  this gives them an outlet to discuss it. We certainly don't want this to be ignored or prolonged."

He believes this gives them a chance to move on from what they've experienced. The sessions are private and follow ups will be available if needed.

Many areas, including Poquoson, are still cleaning up following a Nor'easter two weeks ago.

A charitable fund has been set up for Frank Gornik's family. If you'd like to help go to any Old Point National Bank and make a donation in his name.

Related Link:

Facebook page in memory of Frank Gornik