APPLE VALLEY, Minn. — A 26-year-old tree worker died Thursday evening after suffering fatal injuries in a workplace accident involving a hydraulic grapple, and a co-worker has since been charged in connection with the incident, according to authorities.
Emergency responders were dispatched at approximately 7:10 p.m. to the 5200 block of 132nd Street West following reports of a worker with a severe head injury. Officers from the Apple Valley Police Department, firefighters, and Allina EMS personnel arrived to find Tyler Anthony Lynch critically injured near a tree-trimming truck.
Despite emergency response efforts, Lynch was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to a criminal complaint filed in the case, Lynch was part of a tree-trimming crew working in the area at the time of the accident. Investigators said Christopher Boone Crimmins, 34, was operating the truck’s boom-mounted hydraulic grapple while Lynch was on the ground clearing branches and debris.
Authorities allege that during the operation of the equipment, attention was focused on the shadows cast by the machinery and Lynch’s position rather than on the grapple itself. Investigators contend that the hydraulic grapple moved toward Lynch and closed, causing the fatal injuries.
A witness reportedly told investigators that the grapple appeared to move toward Lynch before striking or pinching his head. The incident resulted in severe trauma that proved fatal.
Following the investigation, Crimmins was arrested and charged with second-degree manslaughter. Court records indicate prosecutors allege his actions while operating the equipment led to Lynch’s death. The charge remains an allegation, and Crimmins is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The fatal accident has drawn the attention of workplace safety officials. Authorities said the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other agencies are assisting in the ongoing investigation to determine whether safety violations or other contributing factors played a role in the incident.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Lynch’s family, friends, and coworkers, many of whom are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of a young man whose life ended while performing routine job duties.
As investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the accident, community members have expressed condolences and support for Lynch’s loved ones. Funeral arrangements and memorial service details have not yet been publicly announced.
The investigation remains active, and additional information may be released as authorities continue their review of the incident.
