The county's judge confirmed Commissioner Douglas King's death. King represented Precinct 4 of Austin County.
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According to the county judge, King was repairing a piece of equipment with some of his crew, when two moving pieces suddenly closed on the commissioner.
King died at the scene.
The county said King was about to enter his third term as commissioner.
The county also released a statement on behalf of his family:
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As most of you have already heard, our family has suffered a tremendous loss. On December 17, 2018 we tragically lost a son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend and most importantly with devastating heartbreak, a Dad. After suffering through the loss of their mother just 6 years ago this is unfathomable so we ask that you take a moment of your time and say a prayer for his precious children.
An account was set up for King's children through First National Bank of Bellville, Wallis or Waller under the "Doug King Family Fund," First National Bank of Bellville, 6207 Commerce Street, Wallis, Texas 77485.
King was 49. He leaves behind three children.