An industrial accident earlier in the day left two workers dead, another injured and a community in mourning.
A yellow radio, a common sight at work sites like this one, sits silent atop a stack of shingles. Next to it, a company vehicle waits to be moved.
Behind the truck, a pair of aluminum ladders rest on the ground next to a chain link fence. Later, a tow truck would remove one of the ladders.
Since the accident, a steady stream of traffic has passed along in front of the building.
Just after 3 p.m., police were called to the town hall and believe workers somehow came in contact with electricity while moving a pair of aluminum ladders. It was misty at the time of the accident.
The survivor is currently receiving medical treatment in a hospital. According to a Trinity-Conception RCMP news release, that worker’s injuries are not known.
The brother of two of the victims was on scene this evening. He lost a brother and a first cousin in the incident. His other brother was injured.
“The community is stunned. It is a very tragic set of circumstances,” said Bay Roberts Mayor Philip Wood. “When you have something like this happen and In such a manner it leaves people in shock.”
I express my condolences on behalf of the town to the family and the fellow workers.
Town workers, who are also members of the fire department, were among the first to arrive on scene. They attempted first aid and aided the paramedics in whichever way was necessary.
“I was very proud of the work they did,” said Wood.
The town office was closed for the afternoon, with employees told to stay home for the remainder of the day.
Occupation Health and Safety staff is investigating the incident.
Spaniard’s Bay roofing company DunRite Roofing was working on the site. They are the same company that did work on Wood’s roof two years ago.
The company has an excellent reputation and are experience roofers.
The area was locked down Monday and secured out of concern for public and police safety. It is unsure whether the office will open tomorrow.
“My condolences are with the family,” said Wood.
