A Brazilian farmer, known locally as 'Mr. Potato,' died on Wednesday, September 9, after being crushed by a nearly one-tonne bag of potatoes at his family's business in southern Santa Catarina. Nivaldo Magagnin, 63, was reportedly at his potato trading and processing facility around 8:20 a.m. when a large bulk bag fell on him.
Rescuers found Magagnin pinned beneath the load. Firefighters confirmed he had died at the scene. According to the Military Fire Brigade of Santa Catarina, the bag had been suspended approximately two meters above the ground when a steel cable supporting it broke, causing the potatoes to fall.
A witness told police that workers heard a loud noise and discovered Magagnin on the ground under the bag. Employees and family members attempted to move the load before emergency services arrived.
Magagnin was a well-known figure in his community, earning the nickname 'Nivaldo da Batata,' which translates to 'Nivaldo of the Potato.' He ran for municipal council in 2024 using the moniker, securing 437 votes and becoming a councilman for Treze de Maio while continuing to operate the family business. He was born in Pedras Grandes, was married, and had a daughter, Mirieli Magagnin, who also previously served as a councilor in Treze de Maio.
His death led to three days of official mourning declared by the town hall, and the municipal council issued a statement praising his dedication and work for the municipality. His daughter paid tribute to him on social media, calling him "my best friend."
Funeral services were scheduled to take place at the Pedrinho Silvestre Marcon Community Centre, followed by a funeral Mass at Santa Cruz Community Church and burial at the local cemetery.
Local police have opened an investigation into the circumstances of the incident, initially classifying it as a workplace accident. A post-mortem examination and a forensic inspection of the equipment used to move the potatoes are expected to help determine the precise cause of death and how the accident occurred.