An Amazon employee was reportedly found deceased at an Oregon warehouse, where coworkers were allegedly instructed to continue working despite the situation. According to a report, workers were discouraged from assisting the individual who was lying on the ground.
The incident, which occurred on April 6 at the Troutdale distribution center, was initially kept from public knowledge as per an investigation. Witnesses shared that some employees wanted to provide CPR to the individual but were told to resume work by supervisors.
Emergency services eventually responded to the scene, and the affected area was cordoned off. The response to the incident left workers shocked, with some criticizing middle management for what they perceived as a lack of empathy.
Concerns were raised about the treatment of workers in large retail corporations, with previous allegations against Amazon’s distribution centers in the United States. The company stated it was saddened by the loss and offered support to the family of the deceased employee and on-site counseling for affected employees.
Operations at the site were temporarily halted following the incident, and voluntary time off was offered to staff. Amazon clarified that the incident was deemed non-work related by authorities.
This incident follows protests by Amazon workers under the #MakeAmazonPay banner, highlighting grievances related to labor conditions, environmental impact, and worker treatment. An Amazon worker in India expressed concerns about being treated as expendable by the company.