Table of Contents - Jump Ahead:
A man was killed Thursday morning after being crushed by a heavy object at the BNSF Vehicle Facility in El Mirage.
According to El Mirage police, the accident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. near U.S. 60 and Thompson Ranch Road. Responders found the man trapped under a metal plate weighing more than a thousand pounds. He was unresponsive when fire crews arrived and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim was reportedly a contract worker performing duties on BNSF property. Authorities have not released his identity, and the cause of the incident remains under investigation.
What Happened at the BNSF El Mirage Vehicle Facility
Police reports state that the worker was crushed when a heavy metal plate unexpectedly shifted and fell. The plate was later determined to weigh well over a thousand pounds, leaving little chance of survival.
The facility is located at 11925 Thompson Ranch Road, El Mirage, AZ 85335.
No additional details have been provided about what caused the plate to fall, whether the equipment was faulty, or whether safety procedures were in place. Workplace accidents of this nature often involve multiple potential contributing factors, including equipment design, maintenance issues, or improper safety protocols.
However, BNSF did issue a statement indicating that the incident did not involve an employee or BNSF equipment. Whether or not the latter is true is not clear at this time.
Workplace Fatalities in Arizona
Unfortunately, workplace fatalities are not uncommon in Arizona, especially at industrial facilities. Heavy machinery is a leading cause of workplace fatalities nationwide, particularly in industries that involve loading, transport, and industrial yard work.
When the worker is a contractor rather than a direct employee, responsibility for safety can be complicated. Questions often arise over whether the property owner or another company was responsible for ensuring a safe work environment.
What Legal Options Does the Family Have?
The family of the deceased worker may have several options for pursuing justice and financial recovery:
Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits: Generally, independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Arizona. However, in some rare cases, a person working as a contractor might still be considered an employee for workers’ compensation purposes if their relationship with the business more closely resembles that of an employer-employee. Whether or not this is an option is not clear at this time.
Third-Party Liability Lawsuit: If another company, including BNSF or an equipment manufacturer, contributed to unsafe conditions, the family may be able to file a civil lawsuit. This can allow recovery for damages not available through workers’ comp, including loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and the full value of lost earnings.
Wrongful Death Claim: Arizona law permits surviving family members to bring a wrongful death action against any negligent parties whose conduct contributed to the fatal accident. These claims are separate from workers’ comp (if available) and can provide broader compensation.
Singleton Schreiber Can Help
Singleton Schreiber attorney Knut Johnson explained why legal action matters in cases like this:
“When a family loses someone in a workplace tragedy, they are not only left grieving but also searching for answers. The law recognizes that companies and property owners must be held accountable if unsafe conditions lead to a preventable death. While no amount of compensation can replace a loved one, pursuing justice can bring both financial security and accountability.”
Families facing sudden loss are often left with unexpected expenses, emotional trauma, and uncertainty about their future. A personal injury attorney can provide critical support by helping to investigate the incident, identify responsible parties, and fight for justice for the families who have lost a loved one.
The investigation into the BNSF yard fatality is ongoing, and officials have not released further information. What is clear is that workplace safety remains a serious concern in Arizona and across the country.
At Singleton Schreiber, we are committed to standing with families who suffer from these preventable tragedies. Our team is here to help navigate the legal system, hold responsible parties accountable, and secure the support families need in the aftermath of loss.
If you lost your loved one in this preventable tragedy, contact Singleton Schreiber today for more information.
