Windsor, CA – On the afternoon of Thursday, April 3, 2025, a forklift collision involving falling wine pallets resulted in the death of a 40-year-old man, according to KRON.
The Sonoma County Fire District reports that the accident took place around 12:59 PM at a wine storage facility in the 1000 block of Shiloh Road. Emergency crews responded to the Alexander Valley Cellars site and located the victim deceased at the scene.
Initial findings suggest the man was operating a forklift between stacks of wine pallets, each weighing approximately 3,000 pounds. The forklift reportedly became lodged, prompting the operator to dismount and inspect the obstruction. During that time, one or more pallets fell and crushed him.
Authorities say there were no eyewitnesses. The Sonoma County Coroner’s Office will determine the official cause of death, and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has taken over the investigation. The man’s identity has not been released pending family notification.
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 benefits can help support spouses, children, or other financial dependents impacted by the loss.
California Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
