Durban — A man, identified on social media as Austin Mafala, fell from a roof and died in a workplace accident on Monday.
Marshall Security managing director Tyron Powell said at approximately 1.56pm on Monday afternoon, the Marshall Security Dispatch Centre received a frantic call from a client located on uMhlanga Rocks Drive, Durban North.
The client reported a severe incident involving a worker from an air conditioning company who had fallen from the roof of the premises.
The caller emphasised the urgency of the situation, requesting immediate medical assistance as the worker appeared to be critically injured.
Powell said in response, Marshall Security’s Emergency Dispatch Centre promptly contacted Netcare 911 for medical support, while members of the Special Operations Team and Community Support were dispatched to the scene to provide assistance and manage the situation.
“Netcare 911 paramedics arrived quickly and began treating the worker, who had sustained life-threatening injuries. Despite their best efforts to stabilise the patient, the worker tragically succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased at the scene,” Powell said.
He said Greenwood Park SAPS arrived at the scene to conduct a full investigation into the incident and handle the necessary procedures following the death.
“This heartbreaking incident serves as a sombre reminder of the importance of workplace safety,” Powell said.
Marshall Security conveyed its deepest condolences to the worker’s family and colleagues.
Reacting to the incident, this is what social media users said:
Vee Heart said: “Rest in peace Austin Mafala. May God comfort your family in this time of sorrow. My guy, we’re heartbroken… I’ll forever miss you.”
Divesh Ramkissoon said: “My deepest condolences to his co-workers and his family, such a tragic loss to our air-conditioning and refrigeration industry. Rest easy bud.”
Innah Leona Marowa said: “Rest in peace Austin. God please take care of his kids.”
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed the incident and said Greenwood Park police opened an inquest following an incident in which a 28-year-old allegedly fell from the roof and died on Monday, October 14, 2024, on uMhlanga Rocks Drive in Durban North.
He said circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated.
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