WorkSafeBC is investigating after an employee of River's Reach Pub in New Westminster, B.C. died after falling on a running meat slicer at work.

It happened on March 22 at around 3:30 p.m. PT, said spokesperson Scott McCloy in a statement. The slicer nearly severed the victim's arm, causing massive bleeding.

"Initial aid was administered on-site and the worker was extracted to hospital but succumbed to his injuries," said McCloy.

River's Reach was shut down for two days after the incident, and again for part of March 30.

Father to 2 kids, including a newborn

A family friend identified the victim as Sanjeev Kainth, a line cook who leaves behind a wife and two children, including a daughter less than a month old.

The owner of River's Reach, George Petropavalis, said Kainth had worked there for two years.

"He was a nice, humble man who loved working here. He was connected with all of us," said Petropavalis.

He said the death was a tragic accident, and that they were cooperating with the investigation.

"We miss him greatly. He was not just an employee but a friend."

Petropavalis said the pub would be organizing a fundraiser to help support Kainth's family.

An online fundraising page has been set up for the family, with over $10,000 raised.

With files from Megan Batchelor