Chrysler worker crushed to death is identified

A worker at an FCA US — formerly Chrysler — plant in Detroit was killed in an industrial accident this morning, the company and Detroit Police and Fire officials have confirmed.

Detroit Police said a 53-year-old worker was found at about 7:10 a.m. Tuesday.

The UAW identified the man as Donald Megge of Sterling Heights, a millwright and wastewater operator at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant that makes the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs.

The accident occurred shortly after the morning shift started. Megge was performing regular preventive maintenance after starting his shift at 5:30 a.m. and was discovered at about 6:30 a.m., Norwood Jewell, vice president of the UAW's Chrysler department, said in a statement.

The company said the man was working in the plant's on-site wastewater treatment facility, performing maintenance on a wastewater filter press.

"Until we complete our investigation, it would be inappropriate to speculate on how this accident occurred," FCA spokeswoman Jodi Tinson said in a statement.

Police initially said the man was crushed and a Detroit Fire official said he died as a result of his injuries.

He was "caught in a machine press suspended a little bit above the ground," said Detroit Fire Capt. Gerod Funderburg.

Firefighters responded to the scene, but Megge was already dead when they arrived, Funderburg said.

FCA has counselors at the plant to assist employees as needed, Tinson said.

"FCA US is deeply saddened by the tragic accident that took the life of an 18-year employee at Jefferson North this morning and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family," the company said in a statement. "The safety of our employees is our first priority, and we will continue to work in cooperation with the authorities, including MIOSHA, to investigate the circumstances surrounding this terrible tragedy."

The union also expressed its sadness.

"Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family, friends and all those who worked with Mr. Megge," said Jewell.

The incident remains under investigation by state and federal health and safety officials as well as union and company health and safety professionals.

All three Detroit automakers and the UAW emphasize safety protocol for workers and visitors.

Free Press reporter Greg Gardner and the Associated Press contributed to this report.