WorkSafeNB is investigating after a construction worker died Monday morning in a fall from the fourth storey of a new hotel being built in downtown Fredericton.

The incident occurred at the Hilton Garden Inn on Queen Street around 9:35 a.m.

The victim's name has not been released, but he was in his early 40s, according to a statement from WorkSafeNB.

He fell approximately 12.5 metres (41 feet), the statement said. Fredericton police said earlier in the day that the man fell from the third storey of the building.

Work at the construction site has stopped and WorkSafe officials remained at the scene into the afternoon.

The area, next to the Fredericton Convention Centre, was cordoned off with yellow caution tape.

It's unclear how long the work stoppage will remain.

The hotel is scheduled to open in the fall, a banner at the site states.

Investigation could take 'a year or more'

Emergency crews remained at the scene, next to the Fredericton Convention Centre, into the afternoon. (Catherine Harrop/CBC) "Workplace fatality investigations can take a year or more to conclude," Manon Arsenault, WorkSafe's communications director, said in a statement.

"The process involves thorough examination of the incident site, witness statements, examination of any machinery or equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) present, work procedures and whether the injured worker(s) received adequate training and supervision.

"The investigation allows us to better understand the cause of this incident," she wrote. "Investigations are a key element to preventing similar incidents in the future."

Plans call for eight storeys, 120 rooms, a small restaurant and bar, and a pedway to the convention centre.

Aquilini Properties owns the site.

The regional coroner's office and the Fredericton Police Force are assisting WorkSafe with the investigation.

"WorkSafeNB sends its condolences to the worker's family, friends and co-workers," the statement said.