Man killed in accident at SPI mill in Quincy

Dan McDonald

Staff Writer

Updated 7/17/2012

Man killed in accident at SPI mill identified

A log-truck driver killed Monday morning, July 16, during an accident at Sierra Pacific Industries’ lumber mill in Quincy was identified by the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday as Todd Walker, 47, of Red Bluff.

7/16/2012

According to SPI Division Manager Chris Skinner, the driver was crushed by a log while he was unwrapping his load in the unloading station.

Skinner said the preliminary investigation indicated that the truck’s stanchions were not in place when a log rolled off the top of the load and struck the driver.

Stanchions are metal support arms on the side of the truck’s bed, used to keep the logs from rolling. According to a logging safety field guide, putting the stanchions in place is the driver’s responsibility.

Skinner said the driver also owned the truck. His name and age had not been released as of Monday afternoon.

Plumas County Sheriff Greg Hagwood said the sheriff’s office is conducting a coroner’s investigation. He said the office of California Occupational Safety (OSHA) had been notified.

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Comments

+24#1Re: mill accident — Portola Resident2012-07-16 14:11

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of this person... such a tragic accident :(

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+18#2Dangerous job — Former SPI employee2012-07-16 17:25

I worked there for 3 years, and saw two men die. You can never let your guard down, and even then, chances of getting hurt or killed are very high. I feel for the family of a man working very hard who won't be coming home!

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+5#3Log Procurement Manager — Craig Gregson2012-07-19 12:18

I am a forester who buys logs for a sawmill. Our plant has a unwrapping station that all drivers are required to use. I would like to get more details on the accident in an effort to use the information to make our procedures more safe. Thanks you.

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+5#4RE: Man killed in accident at SPI mill in Quincy — Helen PItkin2012-07-20 09:26

Thank you everyone for the kind words. His family is devastated, He was a great person. It makes us think to always live every day to the fullest and always treat people kindly, you never know if you will have the opportunity to tell someone how you really feel.

Todd's Aunt Helen

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+1#5Walker's & Pitkin's ... my thoughts are with you — Bryan Teske2012-07-23 15:46

I was heartbroken today when I heard this news.

I remember running around thru green pastures with Todd, Brannon, and Shelly, as kids. I will always have fond memories of those days.

Todd's cousin, thru Gladys Pitkin.

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