Man crushed to death at Pensnett metal yard

A worker died after being crushed at a metal recycling yard in the Black Country today.

The 42-year-old, who has not been named, was working at R Davies Metals in Pensnett, when the accident happened at 4.50am today.

It is believed a lorry and trailer were involved. Emergency services said the man had suffered fatal injuries and there was nothing paramedics could do to save him.

It is believed that the owner of the firm, who lives nearby, raised the alarm and called 999 after hearing a crash.

A police team was at the scene this morning carrying out forensic examinations and talking to workers. A police cordon was in place around the site off Smithy Lane while investigations continue.

The man's family have been informed of his death.

The Health and Safety Executive is also investigating.

HSE spokeswoman Dee Smith said: "We are working with the police and making some initial inquiries."

Residents living near the site said they were shocked by what had happened.

One woman, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's very sad. It's something you don't expect to happen near where you live." West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman John Hawker said: "On arrival crews found a man who had suffered serious injuries.

"Unfortunately, it became clear that nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene."

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "The ambulance service called at around 4.50am this morning to a report of an industrial accident at R Davies metals, in Smithy Lane, involving 42-year-old man.

"The incident has been referred to the Health and Safety Executive who are investigating the incident."

R Davies Metals declined to comment today.