Desperate Struggle: Man’s Last Moments Before a Fatal 18-Foot Plunge, Report Reveals

ARLINGTON, Arizona — The tragic death of a contractor at the APS Redhawk Power Plant in Arlington last November has led to significant repercussions for two companies involved. John Michael Olver, a 50-year-old man from California, fell from a crane while working a contract job at the facility.

The Maricopa County Medical Examiner confirmed that Olver died from blunt force trauma, with the incident classified as an accidental industrial death by the Sheriff’s Office. A recently released report from the Arizona Department of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH) sheds light on the fatal accident.

According to the report, Olver was part of a crew moving equipment when the crane began to lower a load, which tipped towards him. In an attempt to escape, he tripped over a wooden block and fell over a guardrail, plummeting approximately 18 feet, resulting in his death.

ADOSH investigators determined that the guardrail was 11 inches shorter than required safety standards. This detail has strengthened the Olver family’s belief that the accident could have been prevented. “Just knowing that it was preventable… We know this accident was preventable,” said Jennifer Olver, Mike’s wife.

As a consequence of the findings, ADOSH issued citations and penalties totaling $11,524 to both APS, the power plant operator, and Bay Valve, the company that employed Olver. An APS representative stated that they cannot comment further until the full investigation is completed, emphasizing their commitment to safety.

“Safety is the core of everything we do,” the spokesperson remarked, highlighting their engagement with the investigation process.

Family members expressed their desire for improved safety measures within the industry. “I would like to know that they’re going to take necessary measures to be sure that never happens to anybody else,” Brianna Olver, Mike’s daughter, shared poignantly.

Mike Olver was not only a skilled valve mechanic but also a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy, according to his family, emphasizes the need for a safer work environment for all.