Kern County, CA – Oswaldo Alejandro Rodas Hernandez, 50, of Jacksonville, Florida, died after being found unresponsive at a worksite at the National Cement Plant in Lebec, prompting an investigation by Cal-OSHA and the Mine Safety and Health Administration, according to KBAK.

The Kern County Coroner’s Office reports that the fatal incident occurred around 10:29 AM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 33503 Highway 138 in Lebec. Hernandez was found unresponsive at the site and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A postmortem examination was later conducted. The coroner determined that the cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries, and the manner of death was ruled an accident.

Officials stated that both Cal-OSHA and the Mine Safety and Health Administration are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. No additional details about the events leading up to the death were released.

National Cement Company issued a statement acknowledging the incident. The company said it was aware of the death involving a third-party contractor at its cement plant, expressed condolences to those impacted, and stated it is cooperating fully with authorities and regulatory agencies.

California Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits

When a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness, surviving family members may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits. These payments can help support spouses, children, or other financial dependents impacted by the loss. 

California Workers Compensation Lawyer

While some jobs are riskier than others, one constant is the importance of workers’ compensation insurance. A California Workers Compensation Lawyer can help families receive fair compensation after a loved one is the victim of a workplace injury.