Striking John Deere worker killed in traffic accident reporting to picket line
ABC News
A union leader said the 56-year-old worker made the "ultimate sacrifice."
A John Deere worker who was taking part in the ongoing strike was killed in a traffic accident while walking to the picket line on Wednesday morning, the United Auto Workers Union said.
The tragedy took place at approximately 6 a.m. local time in Milan, Illinois, according to a statement from Milan Police Department Chief Shawn Johnson. The victim's name is being withheld pending family notification.
"Initial investigation showed the pedestrian was crossing the Rock Island Milan Parkway at the intersection with Deere Drive," Johnson said. "The pedestrian was pronounced deceased from injuries sustained in the accident."
The 56-year-old employee was a member of the UAW's Local 79 and had been an employee at the Milan John Deere Parts Distribution Plant for 15 years, according to a UAW statement.
