AFL legend Aaron Shattock placed in induced coma following freak accident while operating an excavator
- Aaron Shattock played for both the Lions and Power between 2000 and 2006
- He suffered serious and life-threatening chest injuries in the accident
Brisbane Lions AFL premiership legend Aaron Shattock has been placed in an induced coma after being crushed under a digger.
The 44-year-old father of three was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital with multiple serious and life-threatening chest injuries after the excavator rolled onto him.
It is understood emergency services arrived at his property at around 2pm (AEDT) on Sunday.
The Labrador Football Club has provided an update on the former football star, writing on social media: ‘On behalf of the Labrador Australian Football Club, we send our thoughts, love and prayers to the Shattock family at this challenging time.
“We can confirm that Aaron was involved in an excavator accident on his property on Sunday afternoon. He is currently in an induced coma at Gold Coast University Hospital, where he will remain under observation for the next few days.
‘Shatts’ is much loved by his family, friends and the entire Labrador community. A true Labrador person and life member. Aaron has been an important part of our club since 2007: as a player, assistant coach, senior coach and committee member. His passion for our club is unparalleled and his presence is much appreciated.
Aaron Shattock has been taken to hospital after a freak accident involving an excavator
The former Brisbane star is said to have become trapped under the device after it rolled over him
“Our thoughts are with Aaron’s family and we kindly ask that you respect their privacy at this difficult time.”
The Brisbane Lions also released a statement on Sunday evening to confirm Shattock had undergone emergency surgery.
Three-time premiership winner Micahel Voss described Shattock as a ‘terribly good guy’ and told the club’s website: ‘I can’t believe it… it’s terrible at any time, but just before Christmas it’s even worse. Our prayers are with him and his family.”
Premiership winner Shattock played 57 games for Brisbane between 2000 and 2004.
Notably, he came on as a substitute in the 2002 Grand Final and helped the Lions beat Collingwood.
He would later move to Port Adelaide where he would make eleven appearances before being dropped by the club in 2006.
“Emergency services had to use the jaws of life to free the 44-year-old before he was taken to hospital with serious chest injuries,” 7News said.
It is understood emergency services arrived on the scene just before 2pm (AEDT).
Police are also reportedly investigating the incident.
Shattock (left) would help Brisbane win the 2002 AFL Grand Final, which would be an exchange
The footy star also played 11 games for Port Adelaide between 2005 and 2006
AFL reporter Tom Morris also took to X to reveal the news, writing: ‘Thoughts are with his family, friends and former teammates who rally around him’
It is understood Shattock was working on his property when the incident occurred. According to reports, he had been stuck under the excavator for some time.
Shattock also won the AFLQ Grand Final with Brisbane in 2001.
After retiring from the AFL, Shattock moved to the Gold Coast and would take up a role as player-coach with QAFL side Labrador.
He would eventually become a senior coach at the club.
Journalist Tom Morris went to X to break the news.
“There is some really disturbing news out of Qld this afternoon,” Morris wrote.
‘@brisbanelions 2002 Premiership player Aaron Shattock was trapped under an excavator he was driving and suffered life-threatening injuries.
“The 44-year-old remains in a critical condition at Gold Coast University Hospital.
“Thoughts are with his family, friends and former teammates who rally around him.”