A tragic workplace incident in Oak Bay, British Columbia, turned fatal last year when a father of two was struck and killed by a speeding vehicle, despite attempts by his coworkers to warn him. The details of the event have now been released by WorkSafeBC.
A Sudden and Fatal Impact
On May 17, 2023, a black SUV left the roadway and careened into Bowker Creek Park in the municipality of Oak Bay. The vehicle struck Steve Seekins, a 52-year-old worker, who died instantly at the scene. The incident occurred during what should have been a routine workday.
Investigators determined that moments before the crash, Seekins's colleagues saw the out-of-control vehicle approaching and tried desperately to alert him. Their warnings, however, were not enough to prevent the tragedy. The precise cause of the SUV leaving the road remains part of the ongoing investigation.
WorkSafeBC's Investigation and Findings
The workplace safety authority, WorkSafeBC, has been investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatality. The case highlights the ever-present dangers workers can face in environments adjacent to roadways, even in public parks.
While the full report specifics are not all public, the confirmation that coworkers attempted to issue a warning underscores the sudden and unpredictable nature of the event. Such incidents often prompt reviews of worksite safety protocols near traffic areas.
A Community and Family's Loss
Steve Seekins is remembered as a dedicated father to his two children. His sudden death has left a profound void in his family and community. The loss serves as a stark reminder of how quickly everyday situations can turn catastrophic.
Fatalities in public parks due to vehicular incidents are relatively rare, making this event particularly shocking for the quiet community of Oak Bay. It raises broader questions about traffic safety measures in and around public recreational spaces.
The WorkSafeBC investigation aims to provide answers and potentially recommend changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future. For now, the memory of the event and the failed attempt to warn a colleague linger as a sobering narrative on workplace and public safety.
