Meijer Employee Dies Falling Unloading Semi-Truck Mt Pleasant Michigan

Gene Dale Ketchum, a 59-year-old Meijer employee with over 30 years of service, died after falling from a stand-up powered industrial truck while unloading stock from a semi-truck trailer at the Mt. Pleasant store. The accident occurred on July 22, and Ketchum died six days later at McLaren Flint hospital from head injuries sustained in the fall. MIOSHA is investigating the incident, which marks the 21st workplace fatality in Michigan in 2025, highlighting ongoing safety concerns. Meijer expressed deep condolences to Ketchum's family and coworkers, emphasizing their commitment to workplace safety and cooperation with MIOSHA's investigation. Ketchum was remembered by colleagues as a kind and hardworking individual, and a memorial service will be held at a later date. The tragedy adds to a series of workplace fatalities in Michigan this year, including a recent death at LG Energy Solution in Holland.