The death of a suspected drug dealer in Pennsylvania, who was run over by a bulldozer used in the search for him, has been ruled an accident.

The mangled body of Gregory Longenecker, 51, was discovered in the tracks of the bulldozer on 9 July, after he had fled from police investigating the growing on cannabis plants on state land.

The vehicle was being used to clear undergrowth that Longenecker had been seen running through.

Berks County District coroner's office has ruled that his death was an accident and that the search for him was "reasonable and conducted in a safe manner".

Police had been alerted to the possibility of a cannabis 'farm' on state land by a government worker. When officers arrived, 54-year-old David Brooks Light, surrendered to police, but Longenecker ran away, taking cover in thick brush.

Image: David Brooks Light was charged with cannabis possession Pic: Berks County Police

The bulldozer was sent in to try to clear a path to where he was believed to be hiding, but in doing so he was crushed.

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A post mortem examination revealed the cause of death as "traumatic injuries".

Brooks Light has been charged with cannabis possession with intent to distribute.

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