Updated 8:39am
Jackson, Mich. (WKHM, Greg O’Connor) — Tragedy on the picket line late Saturday night in Jackson. A group of picketers from UAW Local 475 Eaton Aerospace workers were hit by an out-of-control pickup truck.
23-year-old Seth Webb died when a Ford F-250, driven by a 23-year-old man from Brooklyn, Michigan, lost control and crashed into the picketers. The tragedy happened Saturday about 11:30 p.m. at the corner of E. Michigan Ave. and S. East Ave.
Witnesses are telling investigators that two trucks were drag racing on Michigan Ave. when one lost control. Five people were struck. The injured were taken just across the street to Henry Ford Jackson. Two remain in critical condition, while the other two have been released by the hospital. The driver is in custody on suspected drunk driving charges and may have been racing another vehicle prior to the crash.
Police say there is no evidence the crash was intentional. UAW Local 475 continues its strike, and a candlelight vigil was held Sunday night to honor Webb.
“We are deeply saddened to learn about the tragedy that occurred last night on the picket line at Eaton Aerospace,” said Ron Bieber, president of AFL-CIO. “Striking is a fundamental right and every worker should feel free to walk the picket line safe from harm. Reckless driving near strike activity is absolutely unacceptable and our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and their UAW Local 475 brothers and sisters.”
“This is a devastating loss for the Jackson community and our union family. No one’s life should be endangered while they are making their voice heard,” said Daniel Mahoney, Jackson Mayor. “As a community, we all have a responsibility to ensure the safety of our residents.”
The investigation is ongoing.
Related:
UAW Local 475 workers holding solidarity walk with Eaton workers
UAW Local 475 enters day two of strike at Eaton Aerospace in Jackson