Investigation underway after City of Toronto recreation centre worker dies on the job

CP24's Andrew Brennan reports on CUPE Local 79's statement after a municipal recreation worker died on the job on Wednesday morning.

The Toronto police and the Ministry of Labour are investigating after a municipal recreation worker died on the job on Wednesday morning.

Toronto police would only say that they received a medical call in the area of Pharmacy and Danforth avenues.

They said no further information is being released as officers are still trying to determine if the incident is criminal in nature.

“A determination on whether this is a criminal matter can only be made after a postmortem examination is conducted and a cause of death is finalized,” Toronto police media relations officer Const. Amy Davey said in an email to CP24.

CUPE Local 79, the union representing City of Toronto inside workers, posted a statement on Instagram saying it was “heartbroken” to confirm the death of their member at Oakridge Community Recreation Centre.

“We mourn the loss of a colleague and extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones and coworkers,” the union said.

“This tragedy also demands answers. It is deeply troubling that this worker was working alone.”

According to the union, the city has a “Working Alone Safely” policy that is intended to protect staff and ensure there is immediate assistance in the event of an emergency.

“No worker should be isolated, unprotected, or placed in a situation where help is not immediately available. Worker safety is non-negotiable,” CUPE Local 79 said, noting that it will work with the city to ensure the policy is enforced.

Russell Baker, the director of media relations and issues management for the city, said in a statement that the worker suffered a suspected medical emergency at his workplace at Oakridge Community Recreation Centre.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of a valued City of Toronto Parks & Recreation employee this morning,” Baker said in a statement.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues. We recognize the emotional impact this loss may have and are committed to supporting our employees and other impacted individuals during this difficult time.”

Baker added that the city is fully co-operating with the investigation.