Garbage Collector Cecilio Pule Killed in Grapevine Accident
A Republic garbage collection truck broke down in a Grapevine neighborhood and ultimately killed the collector, 56-year-old Cecilio Pule, on December 28, 2021. The incident occurred on Cedar Drive at approximately 2:30pm.
Star Telegram reported that after the collection truck had broken down, a mechanic was called for repairs. However, when the mechanic moved the hydraulic arm from inside the cab of the truck, Mr. Pule was severely injured. NBCDFW indicated that a neighbor who witnessed the incident alerted the mechanic in an attempt to save the man. Officers and paramedics attempted CPR but unfortunately Mr. Pule died at the scene shortly after.
According to the interview with NBCDFW, Mr. Pule’s family is not exactly clear on the details surrounding this tragic event. Johanna and Alejandra Pule, Mr. Pule’s daughters, question if all safety protocols were followed by the mechanic and whether cameras on the trucks were working and perhaps captured the incident.
Mr. Pule was a husband father, and grandfather of ten. Alejandra described him as, ““just an incredible man. He was a gentle giant.” Many knew him as “Chilo” or “Pule” and he was well loved by family, friends, and the community. God bless you, Mr. Pule. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Pule and his family at this time. The family has set up a GoFundMe if you are able and would like to contribute to help.
Republic Services issued a statement regarding the loss of Mr. Pule. “"The entire Republic Services family is saddened by the loss of our friend and coworker, Cecilio Pule. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. The safety of our employees, our customers, and the public is a core value for Republic. Republic is fully cooperating with the authorities who are investigating this tragedy and any additional inquiries should be directed to them."
Attorney Roger “Rocky” Walton would like to review the details surrounding this horrible tragedy and investigate further. It is possible that the mechanic did not follow all safety protocols. Mr. Pule’s family described him as very safety conscious. It’s possible there was a mechanical failure that contributed. Were the truck cameras all working properly to help understand what may have contributed to this? It is very important in this matter to put all of the potential defendants of notice of the claim with requests to preserve any/all evidence as commercial entities are notorious for destroying evidence that reflect any wrong-doing. Board Certified Attorney Rocky Walton has extensive experience in commercial vehicle accidents.
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The person or parties responsible for this crash should be held accountable for all damages. To find out how Roger “Rocky” Walton can help you collect the compensation you are due for your losses, contact our practice online or call us at (817) 429-4299.