Authorities have identified the two workers who tragically lost their lives following a crane collapse at the Everett waterfront in Massachusetts on Friday, an incident that has left the local community and labor unions in mourning.
According to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, the victims were 44-year-old Larriston Lake of Roslindale and 37-year-old Paul Ledwell of Middleboro. Both men were working on Rover Street, near the Encore Boston Harbor casino, when the deadly accident occurred.
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Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria said a cable snapped, causing the crane to collapse on the workers as they were cutting pipes off the dock. One of the men fell into the water during the collapse, while the other was struck by debris.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but one worker was pronounced dead on site, while the second was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The crews had been dismantling a former Exxon Mobil facility at the time of the collapse. Officials say both OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the U.S. Coast Guard have launched investigations to determine the cause of the incident and to ensure workplace safety protocols were followed.
The Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, Everett Police, Massachusetts State Police, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are jointly investigating the tragedy.
In a statement, Pile Drivers & Divers Local 56, the union representing both workers, expressed deep sorrow over the loss:
“We place a significant emphasis on ensuring the safety of our members. It deeply saddens us that our members and their families have been affected by this tragic incident.”
Mayor DeMaria also offered condolences, calling the loss “heartbreaking” and emphasizing the need for stricter safety oversight to prevent future tragedies.
As investigations continue, the Everett community and Massachusetts’ labor organizations are coming together to honor Larriston Lake and Paul Ledwell, two hardworking men remembered for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to their trade.