Jun 25, 2026 • Last updated Jun 25, 2026 •
Rupert “Lenky” Bell (left) and David Lindsay, long-time Jamaican offshore workers at Schuyler Farms in Norfolk County lost their lives in a collision on Thursday June 18, 2026 at Blue Line Road and Concession 6, Norfolk County. SUBMITTED PHOTO
The farming community in Norfolk County is mourning the sudden loss of two Jamaican offshore workers who died in a vehicle accident.
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Rupert “Lenky” Bell and David Lindsay, both dedicated employees at Schuyler Farms Limited were involved in farm operations when their off-road utility vehicle was hit by an SUV on Thursday, June 18, at the intersection of Blue Line Road and Concession 6, Norfolk. A third person on the utility vehicle along with the SUV driver sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital.
“Today, we are grieving the loss of two members of our Schuyler Farms family. Their contributions, dedication, and friendship touched many lives, and they will be deeply missed by their coworkers, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside them,” said Rob Woodcock, vice president, People, Culture & Organizational Development at Schuyler Farms.
“The Schuyler family extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families, friends, and coworkers of those we have lost. As a family deeply connected to our employees and the agricultural community, we share in the grief felt across our organization and hold all those affected in our thoughts during this difficult time.”
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Woodcock mentioned that the organization is focused on providing support for the families and friends of those who have passed away. They have arranged counselling services to help everyone affected by this heartbreaking event.
“Farming is more than just a job. It’s a community based on trust, hard work, and looking out for each other,’ he added. “The loss of these two community members is profoundly felt throughout our organization.”
Leanne Arnal, publisher of On the Farm magazine stated that Lindsay had been working on the farm for two decades while Bell had been there for about fifteen years.</P
“They were part of the Lingwood crew before Schuyler acquired the farm,” she pointed out. “They lived together with their roommates for nearly as long as they worked here. This whole situation is tragic.”</P
Arnal shared that she spoke with a female offshore worker who recently lost a fellow coworker. The woman expressed her feelings saying “We have our families and we say goodbye to come here to provide for our families. Flying here on a plane makes us feel excited yet nervous about leaving home behind; there are so many emotions involved-yet none of us plan to return home under such circumstances.”</P
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“It really hit home when she said that,” Arnal noted. “It’s such a distance from home. Families would feel completely lost and heartbroken over this tragedy.”</P
A candlelight gospel night is being organized by colleagues of the deceased men at their camp this weekend as part of Jamaican funeral customs.</P
“They will illuminate the area with candles spelling out (the men’s) names,” Arnal explained. “There’ll be gospel music along with food available too. People will gather together to pay their respects while sharing stories-it’s essentially a celebration of life.”</P
Arnal recently opened The Chill Spot-a community lounge designed as a creative space for offshore workers located beside Roulston’s at 13 Norfolk Street South in downtown Simcoe-and is accepting donations including candles; chicken; vegetables; rice; cooking oil; paper plates; cutlery; and cups to help cover expenses for this gathering.
Arrangements can be made for picking up donated items by calling 519-277-1102.
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Arrangements can be made for picking up donated items by calling 519-277-1102.
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A lawyer is also being sought after to set up a trust fund aimed at providing financial assistance directly to families back in Jamaica.
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“Words won’t capture how tragic this situation truly is,” said Schuyler Farms president Brett Schuyler.
“I’ve personally worked alongside David since 2008 along with Rupert over many years too-this feels like losing family members instead-it’s devastating.”
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