Identity released of ag worker killed in accident

UPDATE 10/19/16 12:35 p.m.: The California Highway Patrol released the identity of the man killed Tuesday in an agricultural accident in Salinas. He is Jorge Reyna Solorio, 37, of Gonzales.

Solorio was killed when he was struck by a tractor and pinned between it and a harvester. The driver of the tractor was the victim’s brother, Juan Reyna Solorio, 35, also of Gonzales.

The CHP is investigating the accident and reported Wednesday that it does not believe drugs or alcohol were a factor.

UPDATE 10/19/16 10:48 a.m.: According to Valley Pride Inc., a farm labor contractor harvesting for Ocean Mist, the field worker killed in Salinas Tuesday was a long time lettuce foreman for the company.

The worker, whose name has not been formally released yet, died after he was pinned between a tractor and a lettuce conveyor, according to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.

Valley Pride Inc. President Joe Pezzini issued a statement saying, in part:

“We are arranging grief counselors for the employees and family members. The cause of the accident is under investigation. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our grief goes out to his family.”

The victim’s family has been in touch with KION/Telemundo 23 and says the company has been very supportive during this difficult time.

Pezzini says Cal OSHA is investigating the case. We also have a call in to Cal OSHA.

PREVIOUS STORY: An ag worker is dead after an accident in a field Tuesday afternoon near South Davis Road and West Blanco Road in Salinas, according to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.

California Highway Patrol said the man was pinned between a tractor and a lettuce conveyor around 2 p.m.

Officers said the man was taken to Natividad Medical Center.

This story will be updated when more information becomes available.