A Sunday morning accident in Lawrence County has resulted in thepossible drowning of a 72-year-old Sontag man, authoritiessaid.

Calvin Hilliard was pronounced dead when rescuers arrived at thehome of Joe Troy Johnson at 403 W. Smith Ferry Road, said LawrenceCounty Coroner Sidney Fortenberry.

Hilliard had walked to his neighbor’s home around 7:15 a.m. Hewho was classified as blind, but could see some light, Fortenberrysaid.

Hilliard had walked around to the back of Johnson’s home andfell into the swimming pool. Johnson attempted to get Hilliard outof the pool, but he kept struggling and trying to climb on top ofJohnson, Fortenberry said.

After several attempts to rescue his neighbor, Johnson exitedthe pool to call 911. When rescuers arrived Hilliard had been underwater for approximately 20 minutes, Fortenberry said.

Hilliard was pronounced dead at the scene.

Fortenberry said Hilliard’s body was sent to Jackson for anautopsy. However, his preliminary findings are to rule the death anaccident and possible drowning.

Fortenberry said Hilliard often went to his neighbor’s home toget rides to church and to the grocery store.

Williams Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.