Bar owner killed in bizarre accident caused by bowling pinsetter machine

ESMOND, ND (KVLY/Gray News) – A man was killed in a bizarre accident at a bowling alley and bar in North Dakota over the weekend.

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

According to officials, Willoughby was restoring the two-lane bowling alley attached to his bar when he was run over by a pinsetter.

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

The Esmond Bar confirmed Willoughby’s death in a Facebook post and said the bar would remain closed until further notice.

“It is with a heavy heart that we report that owner Scott has passed away. Please keep his family in mind and pray for them during this very difficult time,” the Facebook post said.

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

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

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