A son in mourning found himself trapped under his father’s casket after it toppled onto him when the ground around the grave gave way.
Benjamin Aviles Jr., aged 61, passed away unexpectedly on March 21 due to heart-related complications, leaving his family in shock as they tried to cope with the sudden loss of the Puerto Rican.
His funeral was held a week later on March 28, at Greenmount Cemetery in North Philadelphia. During the ceremony, as the pallbearers were in the process of interring him, the area around the grave gave way, causing the casket to fall into Aviles’ grave.
Maribelle Rodriguez, his stepdaughter, shared with ABC7: “It was just a horrible incident that happened at a bad moment.”
The individuals who fell into the grave sustained injuries to their limbs and backs, while Aviles’ son, who shares his name, endured a head injury with the casket pressing down on him.
Rodriguez further explained: “The casket lay on top of him, and he was out like a light with his face in the mud.”
The funeral was organized by Rodriguez Funeral Home, which recounted how Aviles found the love of his life, Gloria Acevedo, and they settled together in northeast Philadelphia.
According to their statement: “Born on August 30, 1963, in Lares, Puerto Rico, to Sara Antonia Aleman de Aviles and Benjamin Aviles, Benjamin built a life defined by hard work, deep love for his family, and unwavering dedication. He spent 27 years as a valued employee at Cardone Industries before continuing his career with the Menasha Corporation.
“A man of many talents, Benji had a natural gift for working on cars. Entirely self-taught, there wasn’t a car problem he couldn’t fix. He also enjoyed fishing, traveling with his beloved wife, and cheering on his favorite sports – especially boxing and football.”
The statement from Rodriguez Funeral Home continued: “Benji was a devoted husband, a loving father to his son, a caring father figure to his stepdaughters, a treasured grandfather to his four grandchildren, and a dear friend to many.
“He was a man of great integrity, strength, and endless love for his family. His kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew him.
“Though his absence leaves a void, his memory will forever live on in the stories we share and the love he gave so freely.”
Nevertheless, Aviles’ stepdaughter criticized the funeral home regarding the burial.
Rodriguez expressed to the news outlet: “The whole thing was trembling. It was wobbly; the wood was all wet and soaked.”
The injuries the men endured were deemed not to be severe.
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