The Middleborough and Roslindale communities are mourning after a deadly construction accident in Everett claimed the lives of two men late last week.
Authorities have identified the victims as Paul Ledwell Jr., 37, of Middleborough, and Larriston Lake, 44, of Roslindale. Both men were working at a construction site when a large crane collapsed on the afternoon of Friday, October 24, at a former marine terminal on Rover Street.
Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Everett Police Chief Paul Strong confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine what caused the collapse. The crane, which was reportedly operating from a barge, fell during active work operations.
Everett Fire Chief Joseph Hickey described the incident as a “complex technical rescue,” requiring a significant multi-agency response. Fire and marine units from Somerville, Boston, and other nearby cities assisted in the recovery effort, including Boston Fire’s Marine 1 unit.
“This was a challenging and dangerous scene,” Chief Hickey said, noting that specialized equipment and coordinated teamwork were essential in managing the aftermath.
The ongoing investigation is being led by the Massachusetts State Police, the Everett Police Department, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Officials say the probe will focus on safety procedures, equipment conditions, and site operations to determine how the crane failure occurred.
Both victims are being remembered as hardworking professionals devoted to their trade. In Middleborough, friends and neighbors described Ledwell as a “devoted family man” and “a steady, skilled worker who always put safety first.”
As the investigation continues, state and local authorities have expressed condolences to the families affected and pledged full transparency in uncovering the cause of the tragedy.