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30.11.2016
Equipment operator dies in accident at Cirque du Soleil
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Description
A Cirque du Soleil technician was killed Tuesday night when he was struck by a lift during a pre-set of the “LUZIA” show near San Francisco’s AT&T Park, authorities said.
The accident was reported at 6:43 p.m., said Officer Carlos Manfredi, in a tent in Lot A south of the ballpark, where the show is being staged until Jan. 29.
“It is with immense sadness that we report a fatal accident that occurred on November 29 during the pre-set of the show LUZIA in San Francisco,” Cirque du Soleil officials said in a statement. “One of our employees, a technician on the show, was struck by a lift and passed away from his injuries.
We cannot confirm our employee’s identity at this time as his family has yet to be reached. We are currently gathering more information about this tragic accident and will update you with more details as soon as we are in a position to do so.”
Though exactly what transpired remains unclear, the Police Department’s traffic collision investigation team and investigators with Cal/OSHA, the state's workplace safety regulator, were at the scene, Manfredi said.
The show was canceled Tuesday following the accident, police said.
According to ticket holders, officials with the show were handing out fliers apologizing for the cancellation:
“Due to circumstances beyond our control we have unfortunately been forced to cancel the show scheduled for today,” the fliers read. “We ask that you accept our sincere apologies. We understand the inconvenience that this has caused and we would like to do all we can to allow you to enjoy the complete performance of Luzia on another date.”
The fliers state that all ticket purchases will be refunded.
Cal/OSHA representatives could not be reached for comment.
Vivian Ho is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: [email protected]
http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Equipment-operator-seriously-injured-at-Cirque-du-10643840.php#item-44548
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