In a devastating workplace incident that has shocked the Spanish coastal town of Estepona, the former husband of local mayor José María Urbano has died after becoming trapped and crushed in an industrial wheelie bin.
Antonio Ramirez, 52, met his tragic end while working at a waste management facility where he was employed as a security guard. The horrific accident occurred during what should have been a routine procedure at the plant located in the Malaga province.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to preliminary investigations, Ramirez was attempting to retrieve an item that had fallen into the large container when the mechanism activated unexpectedly. The industrial bin's compacting system engaged while he was inside, leading to fatal injuries.
"It appears he was trying to recover something from the container when the tragedy occurred," confirmed sources close to the investigation. "The system activated while he was in a vulnerable position."
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Emergency services rushed to the scene after colleagues raised the alarm, but despite their rapid response, Ramirez was pronounced dead at the facility. The incident has prompted an immediate investigation by workplace safety authorities and local police.
The waste management company has temporarily suspended operations at the facility while investigations continue. Colleagues have described Ramirez as "a dedicated worker and well-liked member of the team."
Political and Personal Connections
The tragedy carries additional significance as Ramirez was previously married to Estepona's mayor, José María Urbano, though the couple had been divorced for several years. Local officials have expressed their condolences to both families affected by the sudden loss.
Mayor Urbano's office released a brief statement acknowledging the "tragic passing" of her former husband and extending sympathies to his current family and friends.
The investigation continues as workplace safety experts examine the equipment and procedures at the facility to determine exactly how this preventable tragedy occurred.
