What was meant to be a solemn farewell turned into a horrifying scene at a cemetery in Philadelphia, when a burial platform gave way, causing mourners — including the deceased’s family — to fall into the grave.
The incident took place during the funeral of Benjamin Aviles, who passed away on March 21 due to health complications. As loved ones gathered at Greenmount Cemetery for his final rites, tragedy struck. According to witnesses, while pallbearers were attempting to lower Aviles’ coffin into the ground, the platform suddenly collapsed. The coffin, along with several family members, fell straight into the grave.
Aviles’ own son was reportedly trapped underneath the casket during the shocking moment. Multiple pallbearers sustained injuries to their hands, legs, and backs in the chaotic fall.
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Family Holds Funeral Home Accountable
The Aviles family expressed anger and disappointment at the cemetery’s lack of safety precautions. They pointed fingers at the burial facility for the poorly maintained platform that allegedly caused the collapse.
“The whole thing was trembling. It was wobbly, the wood was all wet and soaked. I think they should apologise,” said Aviles’ stepdaughter, Maribelle Rodriguez, speaking to local media. “There should be some reimbursement, seeing that the ceremony was interrupted. Nothing was done properly,” she added.
The shocking incident, which was caught on camera, has now gone viral, raising concerns over safety standards in burial practices. No official statement has yet been issued by Greenmount Cemetery regarding the matter.