Emergency personnel from the Richland Fire Department and East Hills Ambulance were dispatched at approximately 12:13 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, following emergency calls reporting a construction accident on the 500 block of Galleria Drive. According to official reports, Nelson Tellez, 32, was performing trench excavation work to replace storm drain lines when he accidentally fell into an eight-foot-deep trench. A coworker discovered Tellez lying unresponsive at the bottom of the excavation and immediately summoned first responders. Emergency medical crews performed life-saving measures at the scene before transporting Tellez to the emergency department at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, where medical personnel pronounced him deceased.
Emergency personnel from the Richland Fire Department and East Hills Ambulance were dispatched at approximately 12:13 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, following emergency calls reporting a construction accident on the 500 block of Galleria Drive. According to official reports, Nelson Tellez, 32, was performing trench excavation work to replace storm drain lines when he accidentally fell into an eight-foot-deep trench. A coworker discovered Tellez lying unresponsive at the bottom of the excavation and immediately summoned first responders. Emergency medical crews performed life-saving measures at the scene before transporting Tellez to the emergency department at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, where medical personnel pronounced him deceased.
Workplace Safety and OSHA Investigation
Investigators with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), alongside local law enforcement officials, secured the construction site to inspect trench shoring, evaluate safety equipment, and interview witnesses. Federal safety officials confirmed that an active workplace safety investigation remains ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the fall and assess compliance with excavation safety standards.
Community Tributes and Memorial Support
News of Tellez’s passing at age 32 has brought deep sorrow to his family, friends, and colleagues across the Johnstown Galleria Mall community. Co-workers and local residents established a memorial site with flowers, candles, and photographs at the mall’s pizza shop to honor his memory and pay tribute to his friendships and hard work. Formal announcements regarding visitation hours, funeral services, and memorial funds will be released by family representatives once finalized.
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