Investigation launched into New Westminster lumber yard deaths

VANCOUVER (Scrap Monster): The death of two workers at a New Westminster lumber yard on Saturday is being investigated by police in collaboration with the B.C. Coroners Service and WorkSafeBC. The incident had killed two workers at United Gateway Logistics yard in Queensborough area. The dead bodies were recovered from under a pile of limber. The workers are believed to have been crushed by lumber that fell on them.

The accident occurred before noon on Saturday. A forklift driver who noticed the dead bodies of two workers underneath lumber pile, informed the Westminster Police around 1 PM. WorkSafe was soon notified about the industrial fatality. Police rushed to the spot immediately, taking full control of the premises.

The victims were aged 60 and 65 years. The identities have not yet been released.

The directors of the site owned by United Gateway Logistics are the same as those for now closed Pacific Reload. The site management could not be reached for comment. The site operations include packaging and reloading of timber from trains, ships and trucks on site.

According to WorkSafe officials, the accident itself was unwitnessed and that it may take more time to determine the exact cause of the accident. Possibility of foul play is not ruled out either, WorkSafe official added. The investigations have commenced. The investigators are expected to seize necessary equipment as part of the investigation. Also, employer and workers at site will be interviewed.

United Gateway Logistics Inc., located in 201 Duncan Street, New Westminster is an export oriented Lumber Reload Company that offers great container reload services with a competitive rate in BC, Canada.