Devils Lake (trfnews.i234.me) — A Leeds man died Wednesday morning. Officials say he was trapped in a grain bin.
The death happened at a CHS elevator near Devils Lake. The victim was 34-year-old Enrique Perez of Leeds, North Dakota.
What officials say happened
Dispatchers got the call at about 9:20 am.
The report said a person was trapped inside a grain bin at the CHS site.
Emergency crews arrived about 9:28 am, the sheriff’s office says.
Responders found a man buried in corn inside a grain pit.
Crews began rescue work right away.
They removed corn and used special tools to reach him.
They also tried life-saving steps at the scene.
Perez was pronounced dead at the elevator.
Early findings point to an accident
Investigators say the incident appears accidental.
They say Perez did not wear a proper safety harness when he entered the grain pit.
The sheriff’s office urged workers to follow grain bin safety rules.
Rescue work in bins can be slow and risky.
Safety guides urge a harness, a lifeline, and a trained spotter.
For safety guidance, see: OSHA Grain Handling.
OSHA’s grain handling standard is here: 29 CFR 1910.272.
OSHA’s grain bin hazard alert (PDF): Grain Bin Hazard Alert.
NIOSH guidance is here: NIOSH Alert 88-102.
Investigation continues
The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is ongoing.
Officials did not report any other injuries.
CHS location details are posted here: CHS Devils Lake Locations.
More information on the sheriff’s office is here: Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office extended condolences to Perez’s family, friends, and the community.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.