A fundraiser has been launched for a Victoria man who has died following a serious workplace incident in Saanich earlier this week.
According to family, Chuck Spence was critically injured after being crushed beneath a collapsing masonry wall while working at a home in the 1700 block of Ash Road on March 23rd.
Spence was inside a trench installing piping with his employer when the retaining wall beside the trench suddenly gave way, burying both men.
His employer called 911 and remained with him until emergency crews arrived.
In a statement shared through a GoFundMe created by his stepson Maxx, Spence was initially pulled from the debris after an extensive rescue effort involving firefighters and paramedics.
His heart had stopped for approximately 20 minutes before first responders were able to revive him.
He was transported to hospital with severe injuries, including broken ribs, lung damage and internal bleeding, and underwent multiple surgeries while in intensive care.
Shortly after the fundraiser was launched, the family shared an update confirming that Spence had died from his injuries.
“Despite everything, the internal bleeding could not be stopped and we were by his side when he passed,” the update reads.
The family described Spence as a hardworking man, a skilled handyman and a devoted partner and father figure.
“He meant everything to our family… an incredible partner and a father figure who gave so much of himself to the people he loved,” they said.
The GoFundMe campaign will continue to support the family as they navigate the sudden loss, helping to cover living expenses and other unexpected costs.
In an email statement, WorkSafeBC confirmed to Victoria Buzz it was notified of the incident at approximately 12:30 p.m. on March 23rd and has launched an investigation.
“The purpose of our investigation is to identify and understand the occupational health and safety factors that contributed to the incident, so that similar incidents can be prevented in the future,” the agency said, noting no further details are available at this time.
The fundraiser remains active, with the family asking for continued support through donations or by sharing their story.
