Upon arrival it was found that the operator was pinned under the commercial forklift.
Preliminary investigation by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office shows that 56 year old Charlene Cowan, an owner of Local Pallet Wholesale, was loading a tractor trailer with pallets, when she dropped off in a hole, while backing the forklift up.
The forklift then started to turn over.
Cowan attempted to jump off, but was unable to clear herself free and was struck by the forklift, ultimately pinning her underneath it.
First responders and bystanders from businesses nearby worked to get her free from the fork lift and EMS provided care.
Attempts to secure an air medical flight from the scene were unsuccessful due to weather and Cowan was rushed to the TJ Health Columbia Emergency Room.
At 11:38 am, Cowan was pronounced deceased and Adair County Coroner Todd Akin was called.
The Adair County Sheriff’s Office extends condolences to family and friends of the Cowan Family, as they deal with the loss of their loved one.
The Adair County Sheriff’s Office, Adair County EMS, Columbia-Adair County Fire and Breeding Fire Departments all responded to the scene.
(Sheriff Josh Brockman – Adair County Sheriff’s Office)