On Saturday evening, the UT San Diego reported a forklift accident resulting in the death of a Stone Brewing Co. employee. The forklift overturned and pinned the 27-year-old brewer, resulting in major injuries. He was then taken to the nearby Palomar Medical Center, where he died shortly before 5 p.m. Saturday.
Stone Brewing Co. released the following statement Sunday morning:
It is with a very heavy heart that we communicate a tragedy involving one of our valued friends and Team Stone colleagues. We are deeply saddened that one of our own passed away from complications resulting from a forklift accident at our Escondido brewery on Saturday, August 24. Our deepest condolences go out to the team member’s family. Out of respect for the team member’s loved ones, we are not releasing the individual’s name at this time.
We have launched an investigation and are working with authorities to determine the cause of the accident. In the interim, we have closed down brewing operations as well as tours of the brewery today (Sunday, August 25) and anticipate resuming all operations tomorrow (Monday, August 26).
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Escondido will remain open as will Stone Company Store – Escondido. People expecting to take a tour of the brewery today will be offered a guided beer tasting at the bar located inside Stone Company Store.
We will refrain from commenting further until additional details and information is acquired and the investigation into this incident is complete. Thank you for the outpouring of support we have already received. Our sympathy is with the family and everyone affected by this tragedy.
We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our heartfelt condolences go out from West Coaster to the brewer’s family and friends.