YUMA, ARIZONA — A gruesome workplace accident has claimed the life of a devoted father. Jose Fernando Partida, 57, died one week after becoming trapped inside an industrial chemical mixer at Gowan Milling.
Accidental Activation
The tragedy unfolded on January 4. Partida was cleaning the interior of the machine when it suddenly powered on. A co-worker managed to escape the mixer in time, but Partida was pinned inside.
Plant staff cut the power immediately, but the rescue operation proved difficult. First responders spent five hours working to extricate him. A hazmat team assisted the rescue due to the presence of dangerous chemicals.
"Begging for Help"
Partida’s son, Omar, revealed that his father remained conscious throughout the ordeal. "The sad thing is the time that he was there and that he was begging for help," Omar told reporters.
Partida suffered multiple fractures, including broken ribs and limbs. He fought for his life in the hospital for a week before passing away on January 10.
Investigation Launched
Omar remembered his father as a supportive man who loved American football. "I don’t think my dad deserved all that," he said.
Gowan Milling expressed "deep sadness" in a statement. The company confirmed they are cooperating with the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators say the probe into the safety failure could take up to five months.
For more stories on workplace safety investigations and local news, check out our video here:
