LA PLATA, Md. – A fatal workplace accident involving a tow truck operator is under investigation after a tragic incident Thursday afternoon in La Plata.
According to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred at approximately 4:19 p.m. Thursday, July 24, in the 9300 block of WW Industrial Drive. Authorities identified the victim as Joseph Louis Skinner, 67, of La Plata.
According to investigators, Skinner was operating a rollback tow truck and was attempting to load an SUV onto the rollback portion of the vehicle when the truck unexpectedly began moving forward on its own. As the tow truck shifted, the SUV rolled and struck Skinner, causing fatal injuries.
Several bystanders immediately attempted to help the victim before emergency responders arrived. Despite those efforts, Skinner was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office said PFC D. Walker of the Traffic Operations Unit is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials have not released additional information regarding what may have caused the rollback truck to move unexpectedly.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not announced whether any mechanical issues or other contributing factors have been identified.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Charles County Sheriff’s Office through its non-emergency channels.
