Worker Arrested After Causing Co-Worker’s Death in Tampa

Construction sites are dangerous enough without negligent workers making things even more hazardous. But when reckless individuals put other people in harm’s way, the consequences can be fatal. This was the outcome of a recent incident in Tampa that led to the perpetrator’s arrest. What can you do after a fatal construction accident in Tampa? Can you file a workers’ compensation claim?

Worker Who Killed Co-Worker Faces Criminal Consequences 

In June of 2025, multiple sources reported a fatal construction accident in Tampa. The victim was killed by a “skid steer,” a small type of excavator made for digging, landscaping, and general construction. Initially, authorities found it difficult to figure out what had happened. The body of the victim was found near the front of the skid steer, but no one was sure how he had been struck.

Investigators spoke to the man’s co-worker, who claimed that the victim caused his own accident by “messing around with the controls.” This co-worker said that he saw the incident while standing a considerable distance away. However, this story soon fell apart. The investigators noticed that there were no footprints where the man claimed to be standing.

They also noticed bloodstains on the co-worker’s pants and blood splatter near the driver’s seat of the skid steer. When the investigators pointed out these anomalies, the co-worker quickly exercised his right to remain silent and asked for an attorney.

Co-Worker Confirmed to Be an Illegal Immigrant 

Authorities arrested the man shortly after he asked for a lawyer, and he is now facing manslaughter charges in connection with the construction fatality. Prosecutors also noted that the man is not legally allowed to be in the United States, which could upgrade his second-degree felony charges to a first-degree felony. He may also be deported as a result of this incident, and local authorities transferred him to the custody of ICE after his arrest.

While accidents happen at construction sites, some incidents clearly venture into the territory of criminal negligence. Someone who causes a fatal accident and then lies about it should also expect to face much more serious penalties.

Not only do these lies make it difficult for investigators to find out what happened, but they might also pose challenges for the family of deceased loved ones. These individuals also deserve to know what truly happened, and the truth could help them pursue compensation.

Can a Tampa Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help After a Fatal Construction Accident? 

A Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help after a fatal construction accident. Whether your loved one died due to the negligence of a co-worker or any other reason, you have the right to consider a workers’ compensation claim. Death benefits can provide financial support for funeral costs, unpaid medical bills, lost income, and other damages. Contact The Franco Law Firm today to learn more about these options.

Sources: 

fox13news.com/news/illegal-immigrant-arrested-manslaughter-after-co-worker-dies-construction-site-pcso

wfla.com/news/polk-county/polk-county-construction-worker-kills-coworker-with-skid-steer-pcso/

fox35orlando.com/news/merritt-island-crane-collapse