Spokane, Washington – Man Dies After Getting Crushed by Truck

Spokane, Washington (December 5. 2019) – A man died from injuries sustained in an incident where a truck fell on top of him at a residence at the North Ralph Street and East Bridgeport Avenue on Thursday morning. The Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office released the victim’s name as of Friday, identifying the victim as Ronald J. Wittkopf. The officer has also released that the cause of death was asphyxiation due to chest injury.

Crews were called onto the scene around 10 a.m. on Thursday morning. According to the report, Wittkopf was under a utility truck that was being prepared to be towed when the truck shifted and fell onto Wittkopf. Responding crews worked to lift the truck off the victim and attempted life-saving efforts, but Wittkopf died on the scene. The death has been determined to be accidental.

About Crush Injuries

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loves ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only fatal case of an accident involving a falling object. Accidents that involve objects falling on the victim result in what is called “crush” injuries. According to the Arrive Alive website, crush injuries can occur in any car accident, falls or a situation where a structure is collapsing. Even minor crush injuries can involve a lot of pain and discomfort – such injuries include bruising, lacerations, and sprained ankles. Major crush injuries involve parts of the body below the skin, and usually involve blunt force. Major crush injuries include head fractures, facial trauma, severe lacerations and blunt force chest-and-abdominal trauma, among others. Additionally, because of the events which lead up to crush injuries, victims will often require extrication or some kind of rescue to get them out of the dangerous situation.

While it is true accidents can happen, we urge everyone to do their part to ensure safety in their surroundings. Avoid  areas with hazards such as rockfalls and construction sites if possible, and be cautious if it is necessary. For their part, construction crews should adhere to safety guidelines and make sure that any equipment they use will not become a hazard for anyone else. Make sure that your own home is able to withstand any kind of rough weather, particularly if it’s a mobile home. Ensuring our safety can also ensure the safety of others.

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