Construction worker dies after fall from third floor at lakewood work site

Construction worker dies after fall from third floor at Lakewood work site

by
February 24, 2025
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LAKEWOOD, N.J. — A construction worker died Friday morning after falling from the third floor of a work site, prompting an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), authorities said.

Jorge O. Paltan-Ajila, 51, of the Bronx, was working at 1600 Avenue of the States when he fell at 7:27 a.m., according to Lakewood Police Capt. Gregory Staffordsmith.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Paltan-Ajila was handing tools to another worker on a boom lift when he stepped on an unsecured beam. Both he and the beam slipped off the platform, causing severe traumatic injuries, Staffordsmith said.

Despite efforts to provide aid, Paltan-Ajila was pronounced dead at the scene. He had been wearing a safety harness, but it was not secured to an anchor point, authorities said.

Paltan-Ajila was working alongside two cousins, who were notified as his next of kin. OSHA officials are investigating the incident, which is the latest in a series of workplace safety concerns in the construction industry.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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