Construction site worker killed in north Phoenix, PD says
PHOENIX - An 18-year-old was killed at a housing development construction site in north Phoenix on Jan. 4, the police department said.
The incident happened around 2 p.m. at the Verdin master-planned community at Sonoran Desert Drive near 7th Street.
When officers got to the scene, they found 18-year-old Omar Marino Alonso with obvious signs of trauma and a water truck nearby with significant damage. Marino Alonso was declared dead at the scene by firefighters.
"It looks like the truck was operated by the driver. He just finished filling up the tank. It was heading down hill when the vehicle lost control and rolled over causing the driver to eject. He sustained significant injuries once he got ejected, which resulted in his death," Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky said.
Police say speed appears to be a factor in this incident, which remains under investigation.
"These are construction sites. They have their own type/set of rules for safety. That's the thing you always have to harp on, is safety," Sgt. Krynsky said.
The development site belongs to home construction company Taylor Morrison.
It released a statement, saying, "We are deeply saddened by the fatality of a contractor that happened over the weekend at one of our construction sites and our thoughts are with their family. Our team is working closely with local law enforcement to help navigate any questions regarding this incident. Ensuring the safety of team members, trade partners and vendors is a top priority, and we will continue to enforce safety practices across all job sites."
Marino Alonso was operating a Universal Group water truck.
FOX 10 called the owner of the Universal Group. He answered our call, but said "no comment" when asked about the death of one of his employees.
"As far as if he was wearing any restraint device, that will be determined through the conclusion of the investigation," Sgt. Krynsky said.