Union Demands Probe After Truck Strikes Picketers
Windsor police are investigating a serious incident that occurred on a picket line Monday morning, where three locked-out workers from Titan Tool and Die Ltd. were struck by a transport truck. The union representing the employees, Unifor Local 195, is calling for a full investigation into the event, which they say saw the truck fail to adhere to established picketing rules.
Details of the Picket Line Incident
According to Unifor Local 195 president Emile Nabbout, a logistics truck from a United States-based company was leaving the plant on Howard Avenue when it ran through the picket line, making contact with the three members. Fortunately, the individuals were able to move out of the way after being hit and were not seriously injured.
Nabbout stated that two company management personnel witnessed the incident. He emphasized that Titan Tool and Die is responsible for informing logistics companies of the court-ordered picket line rules designed to ensure everyone's safety. Windsor police confirmed their presence at the scene for an investigation and made contact with the truck driver before the vehicle departed for the U.S.
Background of the Ongoing Labor Dispute
This incident exacerbates an already tense labor situation. The approximately 25 employees were locked out on August 11, 2025, after contract negotiations collapsed. In late March, strikers briefly blockaded the building to prevent the company from shipping a load of tools and dies to its affiliated plant in Warren, Michigan, called Titan USA.
Nabbout expressed deep frustration with the lack of progress, stating the company shows no interest in negotiating a collective agreement. He also raised concerns about job security, noting that even if workers agreed to the company's demands, there is zero guarantee they would be called back to work. The union voted unanimously against the employer's latest offer, which they described as a long list of concessions. Calls to the company for comment were not returned.
