It was Ismet Hodzic (60) who lost his life in Tønsberg on Sunday, the Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina confirmed to VG.

VG reproduced the name in consultation with Muslim organizations, which have been in touch with relatives.

Police confirmed on Sunday afternoon that a man had died in Sem in the municipality of Tønsberg after being wedged between a large lawnmower and a fence.

Operations manager ystein Eikedalen in the Sør-East police district later told VG that Hodzic may be suffering from medical malaise, and that he was later hugged.

– This is very tragic, and a huge loss for many who knew him. Both young and old are grieving, Senaid Kobilica told VG.

He is the chief imam of the Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the late Hodzic is said to have been active as a volunteer for decades.

– We have lost someone very important to us, who was committed and a role model to many, said Kobilica.

– A magnet

The head priest cited Hodzic as the man who helped found the Bosnian Muslim community in Norway, which has long been one of the largest in the country.

Among other things, the 60-year-old is said to be very interested in working with young Muslims, including by organizing cabin tours.

– He is a magnet in the community, and not only for his own generation, but also for young people, says Kobilica

– He is also a person who works around the clock to help others. It’s well-known in the community that he gives a lot to humanitarian work, for example, he added.

The chief of staff is not aware of any details surrounding the death, other than what VG previously reported. Police announced on Sunday that they would perform an autopsy on the deceased to determine the cause of death.