A South Carolina sanitation worker died his very first day on the job when he fell from the back of a garbage truck being driven by his father, turning a sad accident into a heartbreaking family tragedy.

John Derrick Dover, 32, was one of two workers standing atop the truck’s rear platform as crews collected trash in Gaffney around 1:50 p.m. Monday.

As the truck made a turn, Dover fell and hit the pavement, according to Cherokee County Coroner Dennis Fowler.

Dover was rushed by ambulance to Spartanburg Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 3:26 p.m.

“This is a most tragic incident as it was Dover’s first day on the job,” Fowler said.

“What’s even worse, the truck was being driven by his father. Our hearts and prayers are with this family.”

Cherokee County posted its own tribute on Facebook, saying it is “deeply saddened by the loss of one of our employees.”

“This is a heartbreaking loss for our community, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and coworkers during this incredibly difficult time,” they posted.

“John Dover was a new employee in the Cherokee County Solid Waste Department.

“Facts related to this incident are in the process of being gathered and Cherokee County wants to ensure that any information it provides related to this terrible tragedy is accurate out of respect for the County’s citizens and John’s family and loved ones.”

The county said it will provide updates as soon as confirmed information becomes available.