A devastating incident unfolded at the FedEx World Hub in Memphis, resulting in the death of a 48-year-old male employee. Both the Memphis Police Department and airport officials confirmed the occurrence of a “two-vehicle accident” that led to this heartbreaking outcome.
Glen Thomas, the Public Information Officer for Memphis International Airport, stated that the Memphis Airport Police Department responded to the Memphis hub at around 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday. Reports indicated that two individuals had been transported by paramedics to local hospitals.
Subsequently, the investigation was handed over to the Memphis Police Department. Theresa Carlson, the Public Information Officer for MPD, revealed that officers were dispatched to Methodist South Hospital at approximately 6 p.m., where one of the FedEx employees was pronounced deceased. The employee had been transferred from the Memphis hub located at 2810 Democrat Road.
Qwanesha Ward, spokesperson for the Memphis Fire Department, mentioned that the department responded to “two incidents” at the FedEx World Hub. One of the calls pertained to a “medical emergency.”
In response to the tragedy, FedEx issued a statement expressing their deep sadness over the loss of their team member. They extended their heartfelt condolences to the employee’s family, colleagues, and all those affected by the event. FedEx emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the incident were still under investigation, and they assured full cooperation with the authorities involved.
While the identity of the employee was not disclosed by FedEx, the company issued a subsequent statement acknowledging that additional employees were also involved in the accident. Their focus was on supporting the wellbeing of these employees as they recover at home.
MPD confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.
Following the incident, FedEx promptly notified the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) of the tragic death. Chris Cannon, the Chief Communications Officer of the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development, stated that TOSHA investigators are currently reviewing the circumstances surrounding the worker’s demise. The investigative process typically includes assessing the incident location, examining company records and procedures, and conducting interviews with management and employees. The investigation is expected to take approximately eight to ten weeks, and TOSHA refrains from releasing preliminary information to ensure the integrity of the investigation. Once the investigation is complete, residents of Tennessee will have access to review the agency’s findings.
This unfortunate incident marks the seventh death of a FedEx worker in the Memphis area since 2014, with three fatalities occurring this year alone. Each loss represents a tragic reminder of the importance of prioritizing employee safety within the company.