Bill Harmon, an office assistant in the Department of Labor and Industries, died last night after suffering an injury in a stairwell at the agency's Tumwater headquarters. He was 87.
Department Director Judy Schurke said in a message today:
Although there were no witnesses to this unfortunate situation, L&I employees heard the sounds of a fall and responded immediately. They called 911, notified building security, and took action to block the area. In addition, a number of L&I staff went to the hospital to show their support for the family. Im proud of the way our employees responded.
We all, of course, are wondering how this accident could have been prevented. An investigation will be conducted, just as it is in all workplace fatalities.
Harmon, of Lakewood, had worked for L&I for 36 years and the military for another 20 years, Schurke reported. He often said he didnt understand why some one would retire, she said.