A man from Jackson died after falling Monday from the rooftop of Painter Hall at Mississippi University for Women.
Ignacio Hernandez, 47, a contractor with Roofing Solutions LLC, was working with a crew removing the roof when it is believed his safety equipment failed, causing him to fall approximately 35 feet to the ground, Lowndes County Coroner Greg Merchant said.
Hernandez’s coworkers alerted authorities at 11 a.m. First responders arrived shortly after, including a team in a medical evacuation helicopter.
Hernandez was too unstable to be flown for treatment, Merchant said. Instead, he was taken to Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle by ambulance and passed away shortly after arriving.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration officials arrived at MUW Tuesday to begin investigating the incident. OSHA did not comment to The Dispatch on the investigation by press time.
David Furr, regional manager for Roofing Solutions, said he would not comment on the incident until OSHA’s investigation was complete. He said the investigation could take several days.
The construction on Painter Hall began Monday and is part of roofing upgrades across the campus, MUW Communications Director Tyler Wheat said.
Construction for the project began in February with the Stark Recreation Building. Roofing on four other buildings is nearing completion, and construction on two additional buildings has not begun.
The construction on Painter Hall will be paused through the duration of the investigation, Furr said.
“The W community extends its deepest sympathies to the family,” a statement sent by the university said.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 35 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 35 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
