Longshoreman’s death after being struck by equipment prompts OSHA investigation

A worker at the Dundalk Marine Terminal died after being struck by a piece of equipment Monday morning, prompting an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, officials said.

Maryland Transportation Authority Police at the Port of Baltimore detachment attempted lifesaving measures after they were alerted to the incident just after 9 a.m., spokesperson Clinton Kelly said in an email.

The man was taken to a hospital, where he died, police said. MDTA Police are investigating the incident.

Police did not identify the man, but Jonathan Daniels, the executive director of the Maryland Port Administration, said he was an International Longshoremen’s Association member.

The ILA identified him in a social media post as David Deon Smith, 53. The association said he leaves behind a wife, three children and two grandchildren.

“Our ILA members are the backbone of the Port of Baltimore,” Daniels said. “We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, the ILA, and the entire Port of Baltimore community.”

A representative of International Longshoremen’s Association Local 333, which represents workers at the Port of Baltimore, said the union was not ready to comment Monday.

On Tuesday, Eric Lucero, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Labor, said the Occupational Safety and Health Administration had opened an investigation into the incident.

“OSHA has six months to complete this investigation. During that time, no additional information will be provided,” Lucero said.