Two workers are dead after an industrial accident at a lumber yard in New Westminster.
The accident occurred before noon on Saturday at a business located at 201 Duncan St. called United Gateway Logistics. A forklift driver at the company called police after he found two bodies underneath a pile of lumber.
Upon arriving at the scene, police confirmed the victims, ages 60 and 65, were both employees at United Gateway Logistics. Their identities have not yet been released.
“We are not able to discuss the identities of the deceased individuals, as we still need to speak with their families,” said acting Sgt. Jeff Scott in a statement.
“This is a very sad and tragic situation that continues to be investigated by our detectives who are working in collaboration with the Coroner Service and Worksafe BC.”
Worksafe BC told CTV News the accident itself was unwitnessed, and it could take months to determine exactly what happened. Major Crimes has not ruled out foul play.
Overnight, Worksafe BC inspectors checked equipment and lumber loads. Crews typically package and reload timber from trains, ships, and trucks on site.
As of Sunday afternoon the lumber yard was still closed.
Officers say the NWPD Victim Assistance Unit has been offered to anyone who may have been affected by Saturday’s events.
Last year, more than 120 workers were killed on the job in B.C.
An investigation is ongoing.
