Worker Dies After Incident During First Night Preparations In Boston

BOSTON (CBS) -- A man died after a 3,500-pound ballast fell on his chest while crews prepared First Night events at Copley Square in Boston.

Boston Police say there is a death investigation into the incident. The District Attorney's Office and Occupational Safety and Health Administration officials also responded to investigate.

In a statement, Jon Sharpe, president of United Staging & Rigging, employer of the victim, said "We are devastated by today's tragic accident that occurred while constructing a lighting tower for the First Night stage in Copley Square. One of our employees was killed this morning when a 3,500-pound ballast dislodged from a forklift and landed on his chest.

"Although emergency responders arrived quickly, he was pronounced dead on site.

"The health and safety of our employees is our number one priority and we are working with the Boston Police and OSHA to determine how this could have happened. We will respond to the findings when the investigations are complete. Tonight, our focus and prayers are with our employee, his family and co-workers."

Organizers of First Night also released a statement Saturday, saying, "We are deeply saddened by the occurrence and are sending our prayers to the family of the worker."

Mayor Marty Walsh also released a statement saying his heart goes out to the family and friends of the victim

The victim was identified as Brandon McSweeney, 34, of Sherborn.