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A grandfather died just days before Christmas in what officials described as a “freak accident” at a McDonald's drive-thru in Nebraska.
Michael Dickinson, 69, was crushed to death after being trapped between his vehicle and the checkout window Tuesday morning in Grand Island.
He was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to Grand Island police.
Police said the victim's family was notified of his death.
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A grandfather died in what officials described as a “freak accident” at a McDonald's drive-thru in Nebraska. (iStock)
Police Division Chief Dean Elliott told KSNB-TV that the incident was “100% a freak accident.”
“It appears that the deceased opened the door to exit through the window for payment purposes,” he said.
“We're not sure if the vehicle lurched forward or what happened, but it got stuck between the door frame and the car window counter,” Elliott added.
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Michael Dickinson, 69, was crushed to death after becoming trapped between his vehicle and the checkout window. (iStock)
A McDonald's employee attempted to save the man by jumping out of the passenger side of the car, but was unsuccessful in the effort to free Dickinson, Elliott told KSNB. The employee was also injured in the rescue attempt.
The incident remains under investigation.
Dickinson's right leg was amputated in 2021, her daughter wrote on Facebook, adding that she was fitted with a prosthesis a few months later and learned to walk again. She did not say why her leg was removed.
His family remembered “his love” on their first Christmas without him, telling of his willingness “to help and be there when it mattered most.”
Grand Island Police Division Chief Dean Elliott said the incident was “100% a freak accident.” (Getty Images)
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“A skilled and hardworking mechanic, Michael took pride in his work and had a knack for fixing what was broken. It reflected who he was: reliable, practical and dedicated,” his family wrote.
“Although his life was cut short, Michael's love, loyalty and kindness will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be greatly missed and always remembered,” the post adds.
