A man has died in an accident believed to have involved a forestry harvester.
John Fiddes was killed in the incident at Kintore.
Emergency services raced to the scene but could not save the 82-year-old.
His family were too upset to talk about the tragedy last night.
Detective Inspector Alan Armit confirmed the force is investigating the incident along with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
He said: “Police, along with HSE officers, have been making inquiries into the circumstances.
“As with all sudden deaths a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.
“Next of kin are aware and our thoughts are with them at this time.”
A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesman said: “We received a call to attend an incident near Kintore.
“We dispatched two ambulances to the scene. One crew was later stood down.”
East Garioch councillor Fergus Hood passed on his condolences to Mr Fiddes’ family.
He said: “It’s a tragic thing that this has happened and it’s a great shame for his family.
“My thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”