PRINCE GEORGE -- A pipefitter at a Canfor’s Intercontinental Pulp Mill in Prince George has died 11 days after being released from hospital following a workplace accident.
Canfor is confirming that Gary Lefebvre collapsed while working at the mill January 31st after suffering an apparent heart attack.
Coworkers and Intercon’s onsite emergency performed CPR, and he was transferred to a local hospital.
After being cleared for release from hospital, Lefebvre was at home when he suffered a second cardiac arrest and died.
In a statement, Canfor’s Community Relations Manager Rosemary Silva said, “We were saddened to learn of the tragic passing on February 11 of a long-time Canfor Pulp employee, Gary Lefebvre, at his home from what we understand to be a second cardiac-related medical event."
Canfor says that they are aware of speculation that he was electrocuted, and say that exposed conductor wire was found near the area Lefebvre was working.
“We are working cooperatively with WorkSafeBC and Technical Safety BC on completing a thorough investigation to understand the root cause of the workplace incident and to learn everything we can from this tragedy,” said Silva.
WorkSafe BC says they are investigating the incident but would not disclose the nature of the fatality citing privacy concerns.
The BC Corner’s report has yet to be released.
"Gary’s passing has shaken his many colleagues and friends at Canfor and we extend our deepest sympathies and support to Gary’s wife, his young son and many family and friends,” said Silva.
