Work accident claims life of Troy man

ALMONT — Shortly after 9 p.m. Friday, January 3, Almont Police Department responded to Almont Township for two unresponsive males. Almont Officers were dispatched to the 7000 block of Hough Rd in Almont Township regarding two unresponsive males. The homeowner discovered two contractors from Echo-Polish, a company based in Shelby Township, who had been working on a detached pole barn at that location.

Investigators say both individuals were transported to Mclaren Lapeer regional where a 43-year-old male from Troy was pronounced deceased, while a 50-year-old male from Mt. Clemens was listed in critical condition.

An autopsy conducted by the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of the Troy man’s death to be carbon monoxide poisoning.

Police remind everyone to keep in mind carbon monoxide poisoning is extremely dangerous, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas such as pole barns. Contractors and homeowners using fuel­powered equipment or heating devices in these environments face significant risks if proper safety precautions are not taken.

If these heating sources are used you should ensure adequate ventilation when working in enclosed spaces, install carbon monoxide detectors in work areas, regularly inspect equipment for potential exhaust leaks and avoid operating gasoline-powered tools or heaters indoors unless necessary, and always implement appropriate safety measures.

Almont police say the remaining victim continues to be in listed in critical condition as of Tuesday.