Home Depot Victorville Store Under Investigation Following Fatal Accident
Incident Details
According to local authorities, a 52-year-old male employee was operating a forklift in the store’s lumber department when the incident occurred. The forklift reportedly overturned, pinning the employee underneath its weight. Emergency responders were immediately called to the scene, but the employee was pronounced dead upon their arrival.
Investigation Underway
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) are jointly investigating the accident to determine the cause. Preliminary findings suggest that the forklift may have been overloaded at the time of the incident, contributing to its overturn.
Management Response
Home Depot officials have expressed their condolences to the employee’s family and loved ones. The store has been temporarily closed while the investigation is underway.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic event,” said a spokesperson for Home Depot. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Safety Concerns
The incident has raised concerns about safety practices at the Victorville Home Depot store. Local residents have reported previous incidents involving forklift operators, including near-collisions with customers.
“I’ve seen forklifts speeding through the aisles before,” said Victorville resident Karen Smith. “It’s scary to think that something like this could happen again.”
Cal/OSHA Involvement
Cal/OSHA is actively investigating the accident and will determine whether the store was in compliance with workplace safety regulations. The agency has the authority to issue fines and citations to employers found to be negligent or in violation of safety laws.
Forward-Looking
The investigation into the fatal accident at the Home Depot Victorville store is ongoing. Cal/OSHA’s findings will likely lead to recommendations for improved safety measures to prevent future incidents. The store is expected to remain closed until the investigation is complete and any necessary changes are implemented.
