A tragic workplace incident early Tuesday morning in the small community of Chepstow has left one man dead and another seriously injured. South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are currently investigating the fatal incident, which occurred shortly after 6:00 a.m. along Concession 6 in the township of Greenock, located within the Municipality of Brockton.
Emergency responders from South Bruce OPP, Bruce County Paramedic Services, and the Walkerton Fire Department were dispatched to the scene following a call reporting the workplace accident. Upon arrival, first responders found two individuals injured. Tragically, 37-year-old Nick Wood, a resident of Hanover, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A second individual, a 35-year-old man from the community of Arran-Elderslie, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a trauma centre in the London area for further treatment. His current condition has not been disclosed, but authorities have confirmed that he remains in medical care.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation. The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has been notified and has assumed oversight of the investigation due to the workplace nature of the fatality. Ministry officials were expected to attend the scene to begin their inquiry and ensure compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
While the specific details of the incident have not yet been released to the public, it is standard protocol in workplace fatalities for the Ministry of Labour to investigate potential safety violations or equipment failures that may have contributed to the accident. The identity of the company involved and the type of work being performed at the time has not been confirmed, though it is believed the incident involved heavy machinery or industrial equipment.
Nick Wood’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the close-knit communities of Hanover and the surrounding Bruce County area. Friends, family, and coworkers are mourning the loss of a man described by those who knew him as hardworking, dependable, and deeply devoted to his family. Many local residents took to social media to share condolences and memories, reflecting on Wood’s generous spirit and strong work ethic.
“Nick was the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back,” one former coworker wrote. “It’s heartbreaking to think of him not coming home from work.”
In small rural communities like Chepstow, workplace tragedies often have a ripple effect, touching not only families and coworkers but neighbors, schools, and entire towns. As news of the incident spread, many expressed their sorrow and support for both families affected.
The injured man’s name has not been released out of respect for his privacy and to allow time for family notifications. Authorities are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Workplace safety advocates continue to emphasize the importance of rigorous safety training and proper equipment maintenance, particularly in industries involving heavy machinery or construction. Fatalities and serious injuries remain an unfortunate reality in these sectors, despite ongoing efforts to improve safety protocols.
The Ministry of Labour has confirmed that their investigation will include interviews with witnesses and company personnel, examination of workplace conditions and equipment, and a full review of safety practices at the time of the incident. Depending on the findings, the Ministry may issue compliance orders, penalties, or other enforcement measures.
As the investigation continues, community members are encouraged to support one another during this difficult time. Support services and grief counseling resources are expected to be made available to coworkers and affected families.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is urged to contact South Bruce OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
This incident is a somber reminder of the risks many workers face each day and the critical importance of continued vigilance and investment in workplace safety.
