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Labour ministry says man killed in Sudbury while securing transport trailer load

Ministry investigators, Coroner's Office both looking into Shawn Caouette’s death
Police line photo

The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development has provided some details on the circumstances surrounding the death of Shawn Caouette, whose body was found in the Hanmer area of Sudbury, Aug. 10.

An email from a ministry spokesperson referred to Caouette’s death as a “workplace fatality.”

Caouette was employed by Sudbury contractor Villano Construction, the ministry said.

“It was reported a worker sustained fatal injuries while attempting to secure a heavy equipment load on the flatbed transport trailer,” said the email from the ministry.

Two Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development inspectors and one engineer attended the scene. The ministry’s investigation is ongoing.

Caouette was initially reported as a missing person by Greater Sudbury Police.

On Aug. 10, police said they were conducting an investigation into the case in the area of Radar Road near the radar base (near Hanmer).

Just before 3 p.m., Greater Sudbury Police announced they had found Caouette's body in the area. Police said the matter was under investigation by the Coroner’s Office as well as as the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Shawn’s loved ones during this difficult time. We thank the public for your assistance and co-operation over the course of this incident,” police said in a tweet.