Contractor Dies in Equipment Accident in California
Video: KCRA
Source: Appeal-Democrat, Marysville, Calif. (TNS)
A contractor working on the $77 million tunnel and penstock project for the Yuba Water Agency was killed in an accident near the New Colgate Powerhouse in Dobbins Thursday, the water agency reported.
The worker died following an accident while operating construction equipment that fell down an embankment near the powerhouse, the agency said.
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“We are just devastated and still processing what exactly happened,” said Willie Whittlesey, general manager of Yuba Water. “Our hearts are with the family, friends and coworkers who are suffering through unimaginable loss, and with our own staff who supported the accident response today.”
Drill Tech Drilling and Shoring Inc., of Antioch, is part of a joint venture company that has the contract for the project. A company spokesperson said the company could not release any information at this time.
It was unclear whether the worker was an employee of the Antioch company or a subcontractor.
The Water Agency is upgrading a four mile long rock tunnel and one mile long penstock that delivers water to the powerhouse from Bullards Bar Reservoir. The contract was awarded in January. Large pipes for the penstock were brought to the site in June. The project is scheduled to be completed in January of 2026.
This is a developing story.
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