(Seguin) – A Houston area man is dead following a freak accident at a local manufacturing company.
The Seguin Police Department at approximately 6:41 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23 responded to a report of a major collision at the Niagara Bottling factory, located in the 1700 block of 8th Street.
Upon arrival, officers learned that a 39-year-old Hispanic male, identified as Arlen Vargas, had been crushed between a tractor-trailer and the building.
Once they realized he was trapped, employees and the driver of the truck quickly freed Vargas and initiated life-saving measures (CPR).
Officials say once the officers arrived, they continued CPR efforts until emergency medical services (EMS) took over. Despite these efforts, EMS pronounced Vargas deceased at the scene.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Vargas was a driver with another company waiting for a shipment. It is currently unclear why he had exited his vehicle and was near the building at the time of the incident.
The truck driver involved in the accident reported that he had been given the green light to back into a loading dock area and await further instructions.
After a Niagara employee noticed the trailer needed to be repositioned slightly, the driver moved the trailer as instructed. He stated that he checked for a green light before proceeding. Tragically, officials say employees opening the loading dock door moments later discovered Vargas pinned behind the trailer and immediately instructed the driver to move the vehicle to free him.
At this time, no criminal charges are expected, but the Seguin Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.
Seguin Police Department officials say they extend their condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Vargas during this difficult time.