Pinellas County, FL – A workplace accident involving a large steel beam killed one man and sent another worker to a hospital Thursday in Pinellas County.
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded at approximately 10:11 a.m. to an industrial property near 60th Street North and U.S. Highway 19 in unincorporated Pinellas Park.
The initial emergency call was placed shortly after 10 a.m.
Investigators said a steel beam fell onto an adult male worker while it was reportedly being supported or moved by a forklift.
Preliminary reports indicated the man was standing near or beneath the beam when the load or equipment became unstable.
Firefighters from multiple agencies worked to remove the beam and free the trapped worker.
Paramedics transported him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.
Authorities had not released the man’s name, age or employer.
Officials generally withhold a victim’s identity until relatives have been notified.
A second worker, identified in initial reports as the forklift operator, was taken to Northside Hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties.
Officials did not disclose his condition or explain what caused the medical problem.
The emergency response included the Sheriff’s Office, Pinellas Park police, Sunstar Paramedics and fire rescue crews from Largo, Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg.
Investigators remained at the property to examine the forklift, beam and surrounding work area.
They are working to determine how the beam fell and whether mechanical failure or another condition contributed.
No criminal activity has been alleged, and no arrests or citations have been announced.
The Sheriff’s Office said the death investigation remains active.