Graphic Packaging contractor dies after forklift accident


WEST MONROE, La. (From news reports) -- A contractor has died following an industrial accident at Graphic Packaging in West Monroe on Wednesday, Dec. 18.

According to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office, the death was the result of an accident involving a forklift operator and happened around 1:15 p.m. Wednesday.

Graphic Packaging issued the following statement on Thursday:

"We are saddened to confirm that on the afternoon of December 18, a contractor working at the Graphic Packaging plant located on Jonesboro Road in West Monroe was involved in a fatal incident.

The contractor was operating a forklift that overturned, and he died from complications related to this event. Emergency responders and law enforcement were on-site immediately, and no other personnel were involved.

We offer our sincerest condolences and support to the contractor's family. The safety of our employees is of utmost importance at Graphic Packaging, and we are conducting an extensive analysis of the incident and providing an employee assistance counselor to meet with employees."

The name of the operator has not been released at this time.