An Illinois golf course worker died in an accident that occurred in a pond while operating a lawnmower, local authorities reported.

The victim was identified as Jay Roush, 64, who was found dead Friday at noon at the Eagle Ridge Golf Course, located in Paris, according to a statement from the Edgar County Coroner's Office.

Authorities said an employee called 911 after finding Jay Roush unconscious and trapped under the mower in the pond.

Crews from the Paris Fire Department, the Paris Police Department and the county sheriff's office responded to the scene.

Authorities indicated that the victim and the lawnmower were found in approximately one meter of water.

So far, investigators have not determined how the worker ended up in the water.

Colleagues began the search after losing contact with him

The preliminary investigation indicates that another employee began searching for Jay Roush after failing to reach him by phone.

Shortly afterward they located the mower and the body inside the pond.

The Eagle Ridge Golf Course is known for its unevenness and elevated areas, although authorities did not specify where exactly the accident occurred.

The autopsy was scheduled to take place in Springfield while the official investigation continues.

According to his obituary, Jay Roush worked for more than 30 years as an inspector for GE Aerospace in Terre Haute.

Friends and family described him as passionate about golf, softball and community youth sports.

He was also remembered as a coach, mentor and volunteer close to numerous children and young people in the region.

Jay Roush's funeral will be held next week.

The family asked attendees to wear casual clothing or Chicago Cubs t-shirts, the victim's favorite team.

Meanwhile, the authorities are keeping the investigation open to clarify the exact circumstances of the accident.