Fatal Workplace Incident Under Investigation
A tragic workplace accident occurred on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the LG Energy Solutions battery manufacturing facility in Holland, Michigan, resulting in the death of a 34-year-old worker.
The victim, identified as Kim Jung Won of South Korea, was working on the setup of automated equipment when he became trapped inside a machine. Authorities confirmed the incident took place around 5:00 p.m. at the company’s facility on East 48th Street.
Won was employed by LG PRI, a third-party vendor responsible for installing and calibrating automation equipment at the plant. According to investigators with the Holland Department of Public Safety and the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA), the machinery unexpectedly activated, crushing him between its frame and lifting mechanism. He was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
No foul play is suspected.
What Went Wrong?
Incidents involving automated industrial equipment raise serious safety and legal concerns. According to early findings, the machine engaged while Won was configuring or installing its components—a situation that may suggest equipment malfunction, control system error, or a failure of proper lockout/tagout procedures.
Investigators will examine whether adequate safeguards were in place and whether safety interlocks or sensors failed to prevent the machine from operating while personnel were working within its strike zone. It remains to be seen whether the machinery design, installation protocols, or site supervision played a role.
If the equipment activated due to design flaws, software malfunction, or the absence of required failsafe systems, the tragedy may lead to a product liability claim against the equipment manufacturer or integrator.
Industrial Equipment Hazards: A Closer Look
Large-scale automated machinery can be highly dangerous without proper training, controls, and oversight. Crush injuries, entrapment, and amputation risks are among the leading causes of workplace injury in industrial settings. This is especially true during setup or maintenance operations when workers may be inside or near hazardous zones.
If systems are not properly locked out or lack adequate fail-safes, the activation of a machine can occur suddenly and without warning—leaving no time for escape. When tragedies occur during installation or calibration, they often reflect systemic failures in safety procedures or inadequate communication between the manufacturer, plant, and contractor.
Legal Accountability and Rights of the Family
When a fatal workplace incident occurs, the victim’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the responsible parties. Although direct lawsuits against employers are limited under Michigan’s workers’ compensation system, families may still have recourse through a third-party liability claim if a vendor, manufacturer, or outside contractor contributed to the accident.
Legal claims may seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs prior to death
- Loss of financial support
- Emotional suffering and loss of companionship
To build a successful case, it is vital to preserve and evaluate all relevant evidence immediately—including witness statements, surveillance footage, maintenance records, and equipment specifications. An experienced injury lawyer can coordinate with forensic engineers and workplace safety experts to identify the root causes and responsible parties.
Legal Help for Families After Fatal Machinery Accidents
Losing a loved one in a workplace machinery accident is devastating—both emotionally and financially. Families are often left with unanswered questions about what went wrong and whether the tragedy could have been prevented.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has experience representing victims of industrial accidents involving equipment failure and negligent contracting practices. Our industrial accident attorneys work with safety professionals and engineering experts to uncover the truth and pursue justice.
If you have lost a family member in an industrial accident, contact Spagnoletti Law Firm to learn your legal options. Call 713-804-9306 or schedule a free consultation online. We are committed to helping families seek accountability and secure the compensation they deserve.