Pueblo, Colorado – The community is mourning the loss of Taylor Blake Gulliford, a 26-year-old worker who tragically died in an industrial accident at the Evraz Rocky Mountain Steel rail rolling mill on August 9, 2024. Gulliford sustained fatal injuries during the incident, and despite the efforts to assist him, he was pronounced dead at the scene by a coroner investigator.
The Pueblo County Coroner, Brian Cotter, confirmed the identity of the deceased through a social media post, and the news has sent shockwaves through the community. The circumstances of the accident are still under investigation, with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the United Steelworkers Union working closely with Evraz to determine the cause of the tragedy.
Evraz responded to the incident by halting all operations at the steel mill and offering counseling to its employees. The company expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, "We are saddened to confirm there was a fatality at our steelmaking facility in Pueblo this morning. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and coworkers of our deceased team member."
The incident has highlighted the inherent dangers of industrial work, particularly in steel mills where heavy machinery and complex operations are part of daily activities. The community in Pueblo, where the steel mill is a significant employer, has been deeply affected by this loss.
Support and condolences have poured in from various individuals on social media. Deborah Gonzales Doose commented, "Prayers for his family," while Mary C Newell expressed, "Praying for his family, so heartbreaking." Barbara Howard also shared her thoughts, saying, "My condolences & prayers for his family & friends. God bless all!!" The outpouring of support from the community underscores the impact of this tragic loss.
As the investigation continues, the focus will be on understanding the factors that led to this tragic accident and ensuring that future incidents can be prevented. The involvement of OSHA and the United Steelworkers Union is expected to bring about a thorough review of safety practices at the facility.
Taylor Blake Gulliford’s death is a somber reminder of the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in industrial environments. The loss of this young life has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and coworkers, and the entire Pueblo community stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time.