GoFundMe page a beacon of life, says family
A fatal industrial accident occurred at the Ashbridges Bay wastewater treatment plant in Leslieville, Toronto, claiming the life of construction worker on August 17.
Orlando Aponte was working on the Coxwell Bypass Tunnel project under Jay Dee Contractors of Canada when he fell approximately 30 stories high. The Ministry of Labour has initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the factors that led to Aponte's tragic fall.
The company has expressed its commitment to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation led by the Ministry of Labour, in addition to the grief counseling and support they will be providing to employees who are affected by this incident.
Aponte was a devoted family man who had moved to Canada from Venezuela in 2012. His daughter told CP24 that he worked multiple jobs to support his family and had recently completed his real estate license. His aspirations were to combine his construction experience with real estate development.
The incident raises critical questions about safety protocols in high-risk industries like construction. As the investigation progresses, both the industry and the community await its findings, hoping for actionable recommendations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In the meantime, a GoFundMe page by his wife Julissa Fernandez has been set up to assist the family with expenses in the wake of Aponte’s death. The campaign has already exceeded its initial fundraising goal of $20,000 with over 250 donations.
"As his family, we humbly ask for your support during this difficult time to cover the expenses related to the celebration of our father's life ceremony, as well as other family expenses as we rebuild. Your contribution, no matter the amount, will be a beacon of hope for us as we navigate this path.”
