I’ve been traveling for a few weeks, so this and next week’s list will be a bit longer than usual. A heat death, several electrocutions, forklift incident, falls, shootings, vehicle incidents, hydrogen sulfide poisoning, explosions, grain bin incident. On average, over 100 workers are killed every week in the United States due to traumatic injuries suffered at work. More than 20 times as many die from occupational diseases, many due to exposure to hazardous substances many years before they died. The few narratives below (gathered from almost 100 Google News searches) do not come close to capturing the full toll that work takes on the working people of this country. Nevertheless the accounts below gave you a taste of the preventable carnage occurring in workplaces across the country every day.
Union ironworker dies after workplace accident at Benson High School
Portland, OR — A construction worker died after an accident Thursday at Benson High School, according to Ironworkers Local Union 29. According to Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R), Samantha “Sam” Deschenes was injured at the construction site at the high school just around 3 p.m. Thursday. Deschenes was taken to the hospital. She died from her injuries Saturday, according to a news release from Ironworkers Local 29. Preliminary information said the accident involved a forklift, according to Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division. It said Oregon OSHA had an ongoing investigation into the incident and would release more once the investigation was complete.
Man cutting down trees electrocuted in Acworth
Acworth, GA — An employee with a tree company was electrocuted while on the job Monday, according to Acworth police. The man, 38 year old Marvin Cifuentes, died from his injuries at the scene in a residential area near Lake Allatoona. Some in the area said they had been concerned about how close the large trees were to power lines, but had been assured it was safe for workers to proceed. Officers were called to a home on Academy Street in reference to a “person down,” according to Cpl. Eric Mistretta with Acworth police. “Upon arrival, officers discovered that an employee from an independent tree service company had been electrocuted while cutting down trees,” Mistretta said in a statement.
Worker killed in forklift accident in Cheektowaga
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Cheektowaga police said an industrial accident led to the death of a worker in Cheektowaga this past week. According to police, a worker at a Sonwil Drive warehouse was found unresponsive and pinned by a forklift on Wednesday afternoon. Identified as 39-year-old Carlos Matos, police said he was beyond the point of life-saving efforts. “Investigation into the incident led us to classify the event as an industrial accident,” police said. Matos was a resident of Buffalo. It is not clear what led to him being pinned by the vehicle.
Lineman dies while working to restore power in Benton County
BENTON COUNTY, Ark. — A lineman has died in Benton County while working to restore power to areas ravaged by tornadoes on May 26, according to the county coroner. Benton County coroner Daniel Oxford confirmed to 5NEWS that the lineman, whose name has not yet been released, was working in the area when he suffered a heat-related cardiac event. Oxford said that the man was in his mid-40s and from out of state. The man was working as part of an electrical crew clearing brush and trees. He was working west of Highway 12 when he died of a cardiac event due to heat stress. Oxford said that he does not have information about pre-existing heart issues.
Lineman dies while working to restore power in East Texas
RAINS COUNTY, Texas — A lineman died while working to restore power in Rains County Tuesday afternoon. Scott Balentine, a lineman for Farmers Electric Cooperative, passed away around 4 p.m. on Tuesday while working in Rains County. He was taken to the hospital but did not survive, the cooperative based out of Greenville said in a news release. Farmers Electric Cooperative said the group is continuing to gather information to determine what caused Balentine’s death. His cause of death has not been determined yet.
Fond du Lac man dies while working cable repairs caused by Door County tornado, contacted ‘energized line’
WASHINGTON, Wis. (WFRV) – A 27-year-old man from Fond du Lac who was assisting with cable repairs caused by the EF-1 tornado that touched down in Door County last week was killed after reportedly making contact with an energized line. According to the Washington Island Police Department, first responders arrived at the intersection of Michigan and Rangeline Roads for reports of an electrocution just before 8 a.m. on May 25. Officers say the victim, later identified as James C. Terrill of Fond du Lac, was assisting with cable repairs caused by the EF-1 tornado that touched down “the night before.” The tornado was reported on Washington Island on the night of May 21, according to the National Weather Service. Lifesaving measures were unsuccessful and Terrill died at the scene. Authorities say that an investigation indicated that Terrill contacted an ‘energized line’ while assisting with recovery efforts on Washington Island.
20-year-old killed after hitting power line while trimming tree in Arlington
ARLINGTON, Texas — A 20-year-old died while doing tree work after hitting a power line, Arlington police said. Police said he was using a chainsaw when he hit a power line, causing him to be electrocuted. According to a gofundme created for Carl David Blaylock III, who went by “Tray,” he was helping his uncle trim a tree in Arlington when he died. Arlington police responded to the reported death at about 1:25 p.m. on May 25. Blaylock died in a tree in the 4600 block of Kelly Elliott Road, according the the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office. The medical examiner’s office hasn’t confirmed his official cause of death. Tray’s father, who is also named Carl David Blaylock, said his son’s death could’ve been prevented. “The family of Carl David Blaylock III (a.k.a. Trey) is devastated at the tragic loss they sustained when Trey cut into a power line hidden in a large tree,” read the statement. “He and his girlfriend Alyssa had just announced on Facebook that they were expecting a baby girl later this year.” “Trey was the first generation [in his family] to graduate high school at Timber Creek High School and was finding his footing in life but working contract jobs to earn money. This particular job would have made him $100,” they added.
MIOSHA investigating 10th worker death this year
DECKERVILLE, Mich. (WNEM) – The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) is investigating the state’s 10th worker death of the year. Preliminary details reveal that on Wednesday, May 15, a 62-year-old owner and auto repair mechanic in Deckerville was killed on the job. The person was utilizing a jack to lift a vehicle to perform automotive service operations and during it, the vehicle fell and crushed the victim, according to MIOSHA. The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded to the shop after it got a medical call. It was reported by the caller that she believed a car fell on her husband in the shop, according to Undersheriff Nathan Smith. The death is being investigated by the Sanilac County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Worker dies in explosion at metal fabrication company in Rockport, Maine
Rockport, Me — A worker died in Rockport, Me. on Friday after a diesel fuel tank exploded at a steel company Friday afternoon, according to the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office. The worker was identified as Sean Rancourt, 39, officials said in a statement issued Friday night. Rancourt was welding on the tank at Rockport Steel when the tank exploded at around 2:50 p.m., the statement said. Rockland police and fire, Camden police and Northeast Ambulance all responded to the scene. Rancourt was treated at the scene, but did not survive. His body was taken to the state medical examiner’s office in Augusta, where an autopsy will be conducted, the statement said. An official with Rockport Steel did not respond to a request for comment from the Globe Friday evening. The company specializes in custom metal fabrication.
Worker dies after suffering severe burns in chemical explosion, officials say
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WTVC) – A worker has died after suffering extensive burns Thursday following a chemical explosion at a plant in Tennessee. It happened at TS USA, a liquid nitride facility in downtown Chattanooga. According to the Chattanooga Fire Department, fellow employees jumped in to try and help the injured worker. They were also able to extinguish the fire. The worker, whose name has been immediately released, was taken to the hospital with “extensive burns” but later died. Three other workers were treated at the scene for minor burns and a firefighter suffered a minor ankle injury. It’s currently unclear what caused the chemical explosion. Officials said the situation remains under investigation.
Salt Plains park employee dies in UTV accident
JET, Okla. — A Salt Plains State Park employee was killed Sunday, May 26, 2024, in a UTV accident at the park near Jet. Alissa Harding, 20, died in the utility terrain vehicle accident. Chase Horn, a spokesperson for Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, confirmed the accident, Hardings’ employment and her death. Harding worked at Salt Plains State Park for one year and seven months before her death.
Worker dies after road construction accident in Tippecanoe County
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. — An accident at a road construction site left a person dead on Friday. According to a press release, Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the area of US Highway 231 South and County Road 800 South around 12:04 p.m. after receiving a report about a person who was struck by a vehicle. When police arrived at the scene, they discovered a person suffering from critical injuries. 53-year-old Dale Thomas of West Lafayette was later transported to IU Health Arnett Hospital. The worker died while being treated in the hospital’s emergency department, per TCSO. After investigating the incident, deputies determined the driver of a 2005 Mack dump truck backed into the worker. Police are still looking into the exact circumstances that led to the person’s death.
Semi-Truck Driver Killed After Crossing Median, Hitting Car And Another Semi-Truck In Jackson County
Jackson County, MS — On Monday, May 20, at approximately 6 p.m., the Mississippi Highway Patrol responded to a fatal crash on Interstate 10 in Jackson County. A 2016 Western Star semi-truck driven by 53-year-old Paul Fredrick Wilson of Saint Hedwig, TX, traveled east on Interstate 10 when it collided with a 2024 Audi passenger car driven by 61-year-old Robin Trahan, of Melbourne, FL, also traveling east. The 2016 Western Star semi-truck then crossed the center median and collided with a 2000 Freightliner semi-truck driven by 30-year-old Davonta LaFontaine of Opelousas, LA, traveling west on Interstate 10. Paul Wilson received fatal injuries from the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. This crash remains under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
Construction worker killed in Jackson County accident, KSP investigating
JACKSON COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — Kentucky State Police are investigating after they say a construction worker was killed in an accident on Tuesday just before 11:15 a.m. in Jackson County. According to KSP, they received a call from the McKee Police Department requesting assistance with the investigation. Officials say the accident happened on KY-587 at Jackson County Middle School, and an initial investigation revealed that 48-year-old James D. Anderson was unloading storm drain tiles from a low-boy equipment trailer when he fell off and struck the ground. Jackson County Emergency Services transported Anderson to St. Joe’s Hospital in London, where life-saving measures were performed but unsuccessful. He succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced by the Laurel County Coroner’s Office.
Man dies in East Grand Rapids carpentry accident
EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A carpenter died Monday after falling from a roof during a job in East Grand Rapids. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) said the accident happened while the 46-year-old carpenter and other employees were working on a dormer. The workers put a tarp over the dormer to protect it from an incoming rainstorm. After the rain, the workers returned to the roof, and the man fell while working to remove the tarp. MIOSHA said he fell onto concrete below and died.
1 dead after forklift accident, Burlington police says
BURLINGTON, Iowa (KWQC) – A man is dead after a forklift accident, according to officers with the Burlington Police Department. Sam K. DeJanes, 64, was identified as the man who died as a result of the forklift accident, according to a media release from BPD. The incident remains under investigation. Tuesday at approximately 1:46 p.m., officers with BPD were called to assist the Burlington Fire Department with a reported forklift accident at Industrial Service Corporation, 1731 N. Roosevelt Ave., according to a media release from BPD. Upon arrival, the victim was found and initially taken to Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center by ambulance. Later, the victim was taken to University of Iowa Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Mourners to gather for funeral of Lyft driver shot and killed on the job
ATLANTA, Ga. – Reggie Folks took a job driving for the ride-share company Lyft to help fund his dream of making it big as a professional wrestler. Those who knew and loved Folks will gather Thursday for his funeral. Folks, 35, was shot to death last week while on the job in Union City, south of Atlanta. The shooting happened May 15 at the intersection of Stonewall Tell Road and South Fulton Parkway. Union City police charged Folks’ passenger with murder. Koby Minor, a 35-year-old Atlanta police officer who was on administrative leave at the time because of an unrelated incident, told police he shot Folks because he believed he was trying to kidnap him, according to the incident report.
Fort Liberty soldier shoots, kills utility worker outside Carthage home
Carthage, NC — A Fort Liberty soldier shot and killed a utility worker he believed was trespassing outside his home in Moore County, authorities say. According to the Moore County Sheriff’s Office, around 8:15 p.m. on May 3, deputies were called to a home on Dowd Road in Carthage. A caller inside the home dialed 911 to report a trespasser, reporting a man was taking photos on their property. The caller said the man had been “aggressive” with another resident of the home, according to the sheriff’s office. In 911 calls released Thursday, the resident tells the dispatcher that an intruder had come onto their farm and was taking photos of their property and their children. The caller said that their spouse was speaking to the person but had requested police be called. Deputies responded and found Ramzan Daraev, 35, from Chicago, dead from a gunshot wound. According to the sheriff’s office, Daraev, reported to be a subcontractor for Utilities One, was not wearing identification or a uniform, and he didn’t have any equipment with him.
1 dead after reported grain bin accident
BUCHANAN COUNTY, Mo. — At around 11:55 a.m. Thursday, Buchanan County deputies and EMS were sent to a farm in southeast Buchanan County to assist a person trapped in a grain bin. The farm is located near the intersection of 169 and E highways. According to the department, first responders and family members worked for over a hour before finding a 69-year-old male who passed away. The investigation is currently ongoing but appears to be an accident.
20-year-old dies on the job on Hwy 3 in Warren County
Warren County, MS — A 20-year-old has died on the job in Warren County. The man was working at the wood plant adjacent and to the southwest of International Paper on Highway 3 yesterday when he collapsed. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was declared deceased by Warren County Deputy Coroner Kelda Bailess. Per Mississippi law, when someone dies on a jobsite their body is sent to the crimelab for an autopsy. An initial survey of the incident indicates no foul play or fault of the place of employment. The deceased has been identified as 20-year-old Karl Merritt ll.
Alaska North Slope oil industry employee dies in workplace incident
Milne Point, AK — A worker was killed at an Alaska oil field over the weekend, the third workplace fatality in the North Slope oil industry in 13 months. Randy Lytle, 62, was an employee of MagTec Alaska. He died Saturday morning during a snow removal operation at the Milne Point oil field, according to information from a state official and companies familiar with the incident. A report released by the state about the incident said Lytle was struck and killed by a front-end loader while walking at a job site. “First responders were immediately called to the scene, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful,” the report said.
Truck driver killed in fiery tanker crash in Nappanee
NAPPANEE, Ind. (WFFT) — Indiana State Police are investigating a deadly tanker crash and fire in Nappanee. Troopers say the tanker was heading southbound on Tomahawk Trail around 12:55 p.m. Friday when it ran off the road near ATC Trailers. Investigators say the truck then came back onto the road but rolled onto its right side and slid southbound, causing it to catch fire and spin around facing the northbound lane. Jeffery Kendall, 50, of Plymouth, Indiana, died of thermal injuries, Elkhart County Coroner Merv Miller said Thursday.
Upstate woman killed outside work laid to rest, OSHA investigating
EASLEY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – A woman whose life was cut short in a shooting outside her work was laid to rest on Friday. A service for Katy Jones, 36, was held at the Chapel of Reflection Mausoleum at Robinson Memorial Gardens at 2 p.m. Jones’ father, Larry Strickland, said she was a registered nurse who worked for 10 years in labor and delivery at AnMed. She attended 5 Point Church and High Praises Church.“She loved her job at NRTC,” Strickland said. “She tried to help anyone who came through as temps, she would talk to him about the job and what the responsibilities were She would train them. She would talk to him about the Lord and if they need help, she would recommend that they see a psychiatrist or go to a rehab service.” Jones was sitting in her car in the parking lot of NRTC on May 17 when investigators said she was shot by a former coworker. Strickland said he believes more safety protocols should be implemented at the company. “The plant’s responsibility to the permanent employees is to have locked doors with badges or fences or some kind of security,” he said. The South Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is investigating the incident.
Climber Dies After Fall in Climbing Gym
Manchester, NH — A climber has died after an accident in a New Hampshire climbing gym. When responders arrived, they found the injured climber, who sources say fell up to 50 feet, with “no safety gear stopping the fall,” as reported by in Patch. “A trauma alert was immediately requested for the Elliot Hospital, and crews transported the man with life-threatening injuries. The climber succumbed to his injuries.” Patrick Houghton with the Manchester Police said that it appears to be a tragic accident, and nothing appears to be suspicious. Several online posts went on to identify the man as Lee Hansche, 46, of Allenstown. An Instagram post on Hansche’s personal account later confirmed it. There is currently an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration “to determine whether or not there were any violations of workplace safety standards in connection with this incident.”
Georgetown man killed in industrial accident at Santee Cooper power plant
GEORGETOWN, SC — — A Georgetown man was killed May 23 when the bulldozer he was operating became buried in a coal pile at a Santee Cooper power plant, authorities said. Cody Jordan, 24, died from injuries he sustained in the industrial accident, Georgetown County Coroner Chase Ridgeway said in a news release. Emergency workers were called to Santee Cooper’s Winyah Generating Station off Pennyroyal Road just after 8 p.m. May 23, according to a news release from the county’s emergency management office. There, they found a bulldozer covered in coal after what authorities described as a “trench collapse” that caused Jordan and the bulldozer to fall into a coal pile. “This is a difficult situation, and our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved and to their families,” Santee Cooper said in a news release. The utility noted that Jordan worked for a contractor that Santee Cooper has used for years.
Worker hit and killed in manhole at Rochester gas station
Rochester, N.Y. — A man was killed on Saturday while working in a manhole at a gas station at Lyell Avenue and Mt. Read Boulevard. A 45-year-old Rochester man drove into the parking lot around 11:30 a.m. and struck the worker, Michael Davis, 53, of Brighton, who was obscured by the manhole, killing him, according to police. The driver is cooperating with the investigation. Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be factors. The investigation is ongoing. No charges have been filed at this time.
27-year-old bank employee killed in building explosion
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WOIO/Gray News) – A 27-year-old man was found dead late Tuesday inside the Realty building where a natural gas explosion occurred in the downtown district of Youngstown, Ohio, police said. Youngstown Police Lt. Mohammad Awad said the body of the victim, a Chase Bank employee, was recovered by firefighters. He was seen inside the building right before the blast. He was found around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday. Mahoning County Coroner David Kennedy identified the victim as Akil Drake. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner will determine a cause of death.
16-year-old worker killed after new construction homes collapse amid storms, Magnolia officials say
MAGNOLIA, Texas (KTRK) — A 16-year-old boy died after being trapped under a collapsed structure during severe storms in Magnolia on Tuesday, according to authorities. According to Cpt. Bryan Perry, the Magnolia Fire Department received a call about a structure collapse at about 1 p.m., which was around the same time that the storm came through with strong winds. Firefighters responded to a new subdivision of houses being constructed on Willow Heights Lane near FM 1488. Two structures collapsed, and a third was damaged. When crews arrived, they said people at the scene told them someone was stuck inside the rubble. First responders from multiple agencies, including the Woodlands, Conroe, and North Montgomery County fire departments, spent about three and a half hours trying to get to the victim, but he did not survive, and his body was pulled out of the debris at about 4:15 p.m. Montgomery County officials identified the victim as 16-year-old John Aaron Garcia. He was reportedly working a summer job as one of the construction workers on-site. He said that several employees were in the structure and noticed it began to shift before evacuating. Garcia didn’t make it out and was ultimately trapped.
Bethel student dies while working summer scuba job on Apple Valley lake
Apple Valley, MN — A Bethel student has died in the hospital after he was rescued from the bottom of Lac Lavon Lake in Apple Valley while working a summer job. Joe Anderson was using scuba equipment to clear weeds off the lake floor on the morning of May 21. It was one of his first days on the job, according to a Caring Bridge created by his family. First responders were called to the scene when Anderson did not come up to the surface with his coworkers. One of his coworkers found Anderson on the lake floor and brought him to the surface, where he was treated by paramedics. He was not breathing but had a faint pulse, according to the Caring Bridge. Anderson was eventually taken to the ICU at the U of M Fairview East Bank hospital. A May 24 update on the Caring Bridge stated that he had died in the hospital.
‘A tremendous loss’: Police officer, 44, dies unexpectedly while on duty
PONCHATOULA, La. (WVUE/Gray News) – A 44-year-old police officer in Louisiana has died unexpectedly while on duty. According to the Ponchatoula Police Department, Cpl. Pricilla Dean Pierson died on Tuesday while working for the department. Ponchatoula Police Chief Bry Layrisson said Pierson was found unresponsive at a supermarket around 10 a.m. where she was pronounced dead. The department said the 44-year-old was working patrol when a person saw her unresponsive at the grocery store and called 911. Police and fire units responded, along with the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the coroner’s office. Layrisson said Pierson’s cause of death was not immediately known.
Utility worker killed, others hurt in crash on White Horse Pike in NJ
Magnolia, NJ — A utility worker was killed and three other workers were injured in a crash that closed a stretch of White Horse Pike in both directions in Magnolia, New Jersey, Wednesday morning. Investigators said a woman driving a white Infiniti SUV was leaving the Produce Junction along the 500 block of North White Horse Pike shortly before 10 a.m. The woman — who appeared to be in her 60s or 70s — pulled out of the parking lot and sped to get ahead of oncoming traffic, according to police. At the same time, four utility workers with New Jersey American Water were working on an underground meter in a work zone in the northbound lane of White Horse Pike. As the woman sped out of the parking lot, she hit a parking curb and a bush and struck the four workers, police said. She then continued driving and struck two other vehicles, including a sanitation truck, according to investigators. One of the workers, Kyle Sease, a 26-year-old veteran, husband and father of three children — was pronounced dead at the scene.
1 Dead, 1 Hurt After Workers Fall From Roof At Detroit School
DETROIT, MI — A construction worker was killed and another was injured Wednesday morning after they fell through the roof of an elementary school in Detroit, according to multiple reports citing police. Police said the two construction workers were doing roof repairs at Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary-Middle School at roughly 8 a.m. when they fell through a vent, and then roughly 30 feet to the school’s basement, according to reports. Police said one worker was killed in the incident and another was taken to a nearby hospital and listed in critical condition, according to reports.
Worker dies after falling from construction site in North Oakland
Pittsburgh, PA — A construction worker died in North Oakland Thursday morning. The medical examiner’s office has identified the victim as 47-year-old John J Allen of McKees Rocks. It happened just before 8 a.m. on the 400 block of Melwood Avenue. Pittsburgh first responders learned a construction worker fell from scaffolding and found him with “significant, grave injuries.” He was pronounced dead at 8:01. Witnesses tell police the worker was on the outside of the building and fell from nine stories high.
2 killed in fiery crash involving semi-truck in Mulberry
MULBERRY, Fla. – Two drivers were killed in a Polk County crash involving a semi-truck and a box truck early Wednesday morning, according to authorities. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said the crash happened about 16 miles south of Mulberry on SR 37 and Fort Green Mine Road at around 8 a.m. Deputies were dispatched to the area, and they said the driver behind the wheel of a white Isuzu box truck and the driver in the white 1999 Peterbilt semi-truck with a dump trailer were found dead at the scene. Fire crews also responded after a fire from both vehicles spread to nearby grass and brush, according to deputies. However, the fire was quickly extinguished. PCSO’s traffic homicide unit said they believe the box truck was heading south on SR 37 behind several other vehicles while the semi-truck was heading north. As the vehicles approached the intersection, deputies said a vehicle was making a left turn onto Fort Green Mine Road. Investigators believe the box truck didn’t notice the vehicle in front slowing down, and swerved into the northbound lane to avoid a crash. However, authorities said the driver swerved into the oncoming semi-truck.
Former employee fatally shoots 2, wounds 3 at linen company in Philadelphia suburb
CHESTER, Pa. (AP) — A former employee armed with a handgun opened fire early Wednesday at a linen company in a Philadelphia suburb, killing two people and wounding three others, police said. The shooting at Delaware County Linen in Chester occurred around 8:30 a.m., and the shooter fled the scene in a vehicle, Delaware County. District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said. The man was captured a short time later after a traffic stop in nearby Trainer. His name has not been released. A motive for the shooting remains under investigation. The names of the victims have not been disclosed, but Stollsteimer said at least one victim was hospitalized in critical condition. Delaware County Linen is a linen-rental and laundry services company that has been in business since 1988, according to its website. It mainly serves restaurants, country clubs, hotels and other business in Pennsylvania and some neighboring states. The fatal victims were identified by Stollsteimer as 29-year-old Leovanny Peña-Peña and 26-year-old Giguenson Peña-Peña, brothers from the Dominican Republic.
Suspect who fatally shot California UPS driver 10 times in truck was coworker, childhood friend.
Orange County, CA — The suspect who shot a UPS driver in broad daylight in an ambush killing as the victim was on his delivery route in Southern California was a childhood friend of his and a coworker, prosecutors said. Rhean Jalipa Fontanoza, 46, allegedly shot 50-year-old Expedito De Leon 10 times “in a matter of seconds as he sat seat belted in his delivery truck” on May 16, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office said Tuesday. “He still had his UPS scanner in his hand and his seatbelt buckled when Fontanoza drove up next to De Leon’s delivery truck and shot [at] him 14 times in 19 seconds,” the DA’s office said.
Semi-truck driver killed in I-94 crash near Galesburg
COMSTOCK TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — Authorities say a semi-truck driver was killed after a crash on I-94 near Galesburg. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office said the crash happened around 8:15 p.m. Tuesday on eastbound I-94 at mile marker 85.5, near 35th Street, in Comstock Township. Investigators said two cars were on the shoulder trying to change a flat tire when a semi-truck drifted onto the shoulder, sideswiping both cars. The semi-truck continued off the roadway, hitting several trees and jackknifed. The semi-truck driver, a 57-year-old man from Quebec, Canada, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the sheriff’s office. His name was not released.
One worker fatally injured at Schertz construction site
SCHERTZ, Texas – One construction worker is dead after a tragic workplace accident at a construction site. Around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, the Schertz Police Department along with Fire and EMS crews responded to calls near the corner of Tejas Wy and Doerr Lane. When police arrived, they found a 40-year-old Hispanic male who sustained a fatal injury in a workplace accident. The Schertz Police Department identified the victim as 39-year-old Jose Angel Gonzalez-Fuentez from Maracaibo, Venezuela. The Yantis Construction Company, which was overseeing the site, has been cooperative with investigators. The incident is being investigated by the Schertz Police Department, as well as OSHA.
OSHA investigating ‘occupational fatality’ on Washington Island
WASHINGTON ISLAND, WI – OSHA is investigating an “occupational fatality” which happened Saturday morning on Washington Island. The incident happened at about 8:15 a.m. after dispatch received a report of an electrocution at the intersection of Michigan Road and Rangeline Road. Upon arrival, emergency personnel began to administer life-saving procedures. They were assisted by Eagle III aircrew when they arrived on the scene. Lifesaving measures were not successful and the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Robert Cornell, manager of the Washington Island Electric Cooperative, said the contractor’s employee was killed during efforts to recover from the tornado last week.
First fatal lightning strike of 2024 kills Colorado rancher, dozens of cattle
Rand, CO — A Colorado man was killed by a lightning strike on his ranch Saturday, marking the first lightning-caused death in 2024. The ranch is located near Rand, about 120 miles northwest of Denver. According to Action News 5, 51-year-old Mike Morgan had just finished branding his cattle and was starting to feed them when the lightning struck him, according to Jackson County Coroner George Crocket. Crocket said the storm blew in just northwest of Rand, and the lightning knocked 100 head of cattle off their feet, 34 of them were killed. Morgan died at the scene “despite life-saving efforts performed by bystanders and first responders,” the sheriff’s office stated. Morgan’s father-in-law and wife were nearby but survived the blast, according to The Associated Press. The cattle gathering closely around Morgan’s trailer, as he was feeding them hay, is likely what caused their death. Lightning’s deadly charge can travel long distances through the ground or metal objects.
Minneapolis police officer Jamal Mitchell killed in ‘ambush’ shooting that left 4 dead as cop hailed ‘courageous hero’
Minneapolis, MN — An officer killed in a mass shooting on Thursday along with three others, including the suspect, has been identified as a “courageous hero.” Jamal Mitchell, 36, was killed after responding to a call of a double shooting at an apartment complex in Minneapolis’ Whittier neighborhood. Mitchell was a stand-out officer who received an award on just his third day for saving an elderly couple from a fire. After arriving on the scene, Minneapolis Police say Mitchell and another unnamed officer were lured into trying to help the unnamed shooter about two blocks away when the assailant “ambushed” and shot them both. The gunman killed Mitchell and injured the other, whose name has not yet been released.
Western Sugar factory worker dies Wednesday following reported exposure to a chemical leak
FORT MORGAN, Colo. — A Western Sugar Co-Op worker died Wednesday following reported exposure to a chemical leak, Morgan County Sheriff Dave Martin announced Thursday. “The cause of death is being investigated by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office and the Morgan County Coroner’s Office. This investigation will involve lab work and will likely take weeks for the results to come in,” Sheriff Martin said. Another employee and two Fort Morgan firefighters were also treated for exposure at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Fort Morgan and released, according to the sheriff’s office. “It is our belief through onsite discussion with plant officials and air monitoring by first responders that the exposure sustained was Hydrogen Sulfide gas (H2S),” Sheriff Martin said.
Semi truck driver killed in I-8 crash
SAN DIEGO, CA — The driver of a semi truck was killed after his vehicle over turned on westbound Interstate 8 Thursday morning, authorities confirmed. All lanes were blocked on I-8 for several hours due to the response, gridlocking traffic in the area, which was near Hotel Circle Drive in Mission Valley. The incident was first reported shortly before 3 a.m. Thursday, according to a SigAlert from California Highway Patrol. That same alert noted at least one vehicle had turned over on its side. CHP reported that debris was scattered along the roadway, prompting authorities to partially close the area to motorists. The roadway has since reopened. The identity of the driver has not been released at this time.
Roofer Dies After Being Electrocuted In Duluth
DULUTH, Minn. – A worker was killed in Duluth Thursday after being electrocuted. The accident was reported around 10:30 a.m. in the area of North 17th Avenue East. Duluth police told FOX 21 the male roofer was climbing a ladder with a metal gutter section, which came into contact with a power line. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Police did not release a name or age Thursday, as family members were still be notified.
Man dies after contact with live electrical circuit while fixing AC unit
Fayette County, PA — A Fayette County man died Wednesday, May 29, after coming into contact with a live 480-volt open circuit while working on an air-conditioning unit, according to information provided by Westmoreland County Coroner Tim Carson. Investigators said the incident occurred at approximately 10:42 a.m. at a Devereux Drive location in Unity Township. According to the report, 33-year-old James Alfred McGalla Jr. of South Oak Street, Fairchance, was working on the AC unit when he came into contact with the open circuit. Members of the Pennsylvania State Police, Mutual Aid Ambulance Service and the Lloydsville Volunteer Fire Department responded to the incident location, Carson said. McGalla was transported to Independence Health System Latrobe Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 12:01 p.m. by an emergency department physician. The coroner’s office said the Occupational Safety and Heath Administration is investigating the fatal incident.
2 subjects taken into custody following Arizona reservation shooting that left officer, civilian dead: FBI
Gila River Indian Reservation, AZ — After a fatal shooting on the Gila River Indian Reservation, officers initiate a manhunt for the suspect. Two subjects have been taken into custody after an officer and a civilian were killed, and another officer and three others were wounded in a shooting incident in the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona early Saturday morning, the FBI said Sunday. Both subjects — one adult male and one juvenile male — were identified by the FBI and Gila River Police and taken into custody, authorities said. They are currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during Saturday’s shooting. On Saturday, officers responded to an incident involving a large crowd at a home in Santan, District 4 in the community around 2 a.m. local time, when multiple gunshots were fired, according to the Gila River Police Department. Six people were shot during the incident, including Officer Joshua Briese, who succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, police said. Briese had been with the force for less than a year and was still in field training, according to the police.
27-year-old Buchanan Co. coal miner dies during work incident
BUCHANAN COUNTY, Va. (WVVA) – According to Virginia Energy, a 27-year-old coal miner was killed Friday at Buchanan Mine #1 in Buchanan County, Va. The incident reportedly happened at 4:20 p.m. when a loose rock fell seven feet from the mine roof, killing the unnamed miner. Virginia Energy reports, the victim worked as the mine’s “evening shift roof bolter.” The section of the roof the miner was working at has been closed while an investigation moves forward. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and the entire coal mining community,” said Director Glenn Davis. “Virginia coal miners and their safety remain a priority for this agency.” Virginia Energy says it will work alongside the Federal Mine Safety and Health Administration to develop a fatality investigation report over the coming weeks. This is the first mining death in Virginia since 2015.
Officer struck while escorting funeral procession dies
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (Gray News) – An officer in Texas died more than a week after he was struck while conducting traffic for a funeral procession. The Corpus Christi Police Department reported the death of Officer Vicente Ortiz on June 1. Ortiz had been struck by a vehicle while conducting traffic control on May 21. According to a GoFundMe set up for his family, Ortiz was providing an escort for a funeral procession when he was hit and thrown off his motorcycle. “We mourn the loss of a great husband, father, son, brother, friend, and co-worker,” the police department said in their Facebook post.
Woman killed in shooting outside Amazon warehouse
CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. — A worker was shot and killed in the parking lot of an Amazon warehouse in Chesterfield County late Friday evening, Crime Insider sources told Jon Burkett. Chesterfield Police were called to the area of Bellwood Road for a report of a shooting around 9:35 p.m. Sources told Burkett that an employee followed a trail of blood outside the building where they heard a gunshot. A female employee was later found with a gunshot wound, according to sources. Company officials said that the worker was an employee of a delivery service partner that contracts with Amazon.
Worker dies after falling into machine at Oklahoma City recycling plant
Oklahoma City, OK — Oklahoma City Fire Department officials told KOCO 5 that a worker fell into a machine at the recycling plant near Reno and Ann Arbor avenues. Crews got the worker out of the machine, and he was pronounced dead. Fire department officials said they handed the scene over to the Oklahoma City Police Department. Investigators and the medical examiner were called to the scene. Information about the victim or what caused the industrial accident has not been released.