Finding into death of Jack Brownlee

21y · Male·Complications of injuries sustained when a trench wall collapsed

Jack Brownlee, 21, died from crush injuries sustained in a workplace trench collapse at a construction site. Despite family concerns that excavator use during rescue exacerbated his injuries, expert geotechnical and rescue analysis found the excavator was essential and appropriately deployed. Crush syndrome with acute compartment syndrome and multi-organ failure proved fatal. The coroner determined his death was preventable, attributing it to Pipecon's failure to provide a safe workplace and ensure compliance with occupational health and safety duties regarding trench work hazards. The criminal prosecution adequately addressed workplace safety failures.