Bar owner killed by bowling pinsetter machine in freak accident

ESMOND, N.D. (KVLY/Gray News) – A man was killed in a freak accident at a bowling alley attached to a bar in North Dakota over the weekend.

The Benson County Sheriff’s Office identified the man as Scott Willoughby, the owner of Esmond Bar.

Officials said Willoughby was working to restore the two-lane bowling alley attached to his bar when he was crushed by a pinsetter.

Willoughby was found dead Sunday morning. He was alone at the time of the accident.

Esmond Bar confirmed Willoughby’s death in a Facebook post, saying the bar would be closed until further notice.

“We write with a heavy heart that the owner, Scott, has passed away. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers through this very difficult time,” the Facebook post read, in part.

One commenter expressed condolences, saying Willoughby discussed the bowling alley when she visited his bar recently.

“We had the best visit when I was there a couple weeks ago. He showed us the bowling alley remodel. He was so proud of it!!” the Facebook user wrote in a comment.

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