GIG HARBOR, Wash. — A man who died in a tragic workplace accident in the Canterwood area north of Gig Harbor has been identified as 65-year-old Robert Whitlock of Parkland. According to the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office, Whitlock was fatally injured on June 27 when his work truck rolled down a driveway and ran over him.
The incident occurred near Canterwood Drive Northwest and Muir Drive Northwest, where Whitlock had been doing work for a homeowner. Around that time, the parked truck suddenly began to roll backward down the sloped driveway. Whitlock was struck and crushed by the vehicle. Emergency crews responded to the scene, but he was pronounced dead on-site due to the severity of his injuries.
A news release from the Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Whitlock died from blunt torso trauma. His death has been officially ruled an accident. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the circumstances, and a possible issue with the truck’s parking brake has been noted as a potential factor. Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deputy Carly Cappetto told The News Tribune that the vehicle’s brake failure is under review.
At this time, no additional details have been released about the make or condition of the truck, or whether it had been recently inspected. Investigators will likely examine mechanical records and safety practices followed at the worksite. Authorities have not stated whether Whitlock was alone at the time of the incident or if any witnesses were present when the accident occurred.
The tragic death has left Whitlock’s family and friends devastated. Those who knew him describe him as a reliable and hardworking individual who took pride in his job. His passing has also sparked concern in the community about workplace safety, particularly in environments involving heavy equipment and sloped terrain.
As the investigation continues, the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with information about the accident to come forward. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers faced by laborers on the job. Officials say more information may be released as their findings develop. In the meantime, the community mourns the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Robert Whitlock.