LANCASTER, Pa. — Update, 12:13 p.m.: Holiday Inn issued the following statement in response to the death of Alexei Rodriguez-Balciero:
"It is with deep regret and profound sadness that the Holiday Inn Lancaster PA confirms the unfortunate passing of one of our employees following a tragic incident at our hotel location on Sunday afternoon.
"The safety and well-being of our employees is our highest priority, and we are devastated by this loss. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time.
"Immediately following the incident, emergency services were called, and all necessary procedures were implemented to ensure the safety of other employees. We are fully cooperating with the relevant authorities as they conduct a thorough investigation to understand the cause of this tragic event.
"In the meantime, we will be mobilizing an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to provide counseling and support to all employees affected by this incident. We are also conducting an internal review to reinforce our commitment to workplace safety and to prevent such tragedies in the future.
"We ask that the privacy of the family and all those impacted be respected as we navigate through this difficult time."
Update, 10:50 a.m. (June 10): The Lancaster County Coroner's Office has identified the victim as Alexei Rodriguez-Balciero, 42, of Lancaster.
An autopsy performed Monday determined Rodriguez-Balciero died of multiple traumatic injuries, according to Lancaster County Coroner Dr. Stephen Diamantoni, who ruled Rodriguez-Balciero's manner of death accidental.
Rodriguez-Balciero was an employee of the Holiday Inn, where the accident occurred.
Previously
The Lancaster County Coroner's Office was called to the scene of a fatal fall inside a vent shaft Sunday afternoon.
According to Lancaster County Dispatch, an individual fell into a vent shaft on the 1st block of East Chestnut Street in Lancaster on June 9.
The Lancaster City Bureau of Police says initial investigation suggests that a metal grate was temporarily removed for maintenance work, and a Holiday Inn employee fell through the exposed hole.
The coroner was called to the scene around 3 p.m. after it was discovered that the individual had fatal injuries from the fall.
