1 Dead, 1 Hurt In Construction Accident Near New Prague

NEW PRAGUE, Minn. (WCCO) – The identities of the two men involved in a construction accident have been released.

Authorities say 28-year-old Robert Fenstermacher, of Oologah, OK, was killed in the accident and 37-year-old Jeremy Moye, of Machesney, IL, was transported to Mayo One hospital in New Prague, where he was treated and released for his injuries.

The two men were working on a construction project when they fell into a 50-foot hole. Fenstermacher died from head injuries he suffered in the fall.

Scott County Dispatch said emergency personnel were called to the 2200 block of West 260th Street in Helena Township, which is near New Prague, at about 8:50 a.m.

Both of the men work for Aldridge Electric, which is a company completing subcontracting work on a CapX2020 project. The company is based out of Illinois.

CapX2020 released the following statement, after the accident: "The CapX2020 utilities offer condolences to the deceased worker's family, friends and colleagues. CapX2020 utilities are investigating the incident and cooperating with authorities in their investigations."

An initial investigation revealed both men were standing on a circular rebar section and were being lowered into the hole, with a crane, when a strap broke, causing both men to fall about 20-30 feet.

The Scott County Sheriff's Office and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will continue to investigate the incident.