A Minnesota tree-trimming worker has been charged with manslaughter after fatally crushing a coworker’s head with a hydraulic grapple while the two men were horseplaying on the job, according to the Dakota County Attorney’s Office.
Christopher Boone Crimmins, 34, of Brainerd, faces one count of second-degree manslaughter in the death of Tyler Anthony Lynch, 26, of Royalton. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, in Apple Valley, south of Minneapolis.
Apple Valley police responded to reports of a severely injured man near a truck equipped with a hydraulic grapple. Officers found Lynch on the ground with significant head trauma and a large amount of blood. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Blood was also observed on the grapple positioned directly above him.
According to the criminal complaint, Crimmins was operating the boom and grapple from the truck while Lynch was on the ground picking up branches. The two men noticed sunlight casting shadows of the equipment and of Lynch on the street. Crimmins then maneuvered the grapple so its shadow appeared to grab Lynch’s shadow.
Prosecutors say Crimmins was not monitoring the actual position of the grapple or Lynch at the time. He opened and closed the device, crushing Lynch’s head. A witness reported seeing the grapple approach and either hit or pinch the victim.
Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena said Crimmins created an unreasonable risk through culpable negligence. “My deepest condolences to Mr. Lynch’s family members and friends, and all those affected by his death,” Keena said in a statement.
Crimmins is being held at the Dakota County Jail. Bail was set at $40,000 without conditions or $20,000 with conditions. His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 10 in Hastings.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
