Stephen Rapp Deka Accident – On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, a tragic workplace accident claimed the life of 48-year-old Stephen Rapp of South Manheim Township. Rapp died after being crushed by a stack of metal pallets at East Penn Manufacturing’s Lyon Station facility in Berks County, Pennsylvania. According to the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office, Rapp was pronounced dead at 8:41 p.m. at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest, following the incident that occurred approximately 50 minutes earlier at 7:49 p.m. The cause of death was ruled as mechanical asphyxia, resulting from the collapse of the heavy pallets.
East Penn Manufacturing, a well-known producer of industrial batteries, confirmed the accident and expressed its condolences to Rapp’s family, friends, and coworkers. The company emphasized that it is fully cooperating with authorities, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and local police, in the ongoing investigation. East Penn has also implemented measures to support employees affected by the tragedy, offering grief counseling and emotional support during this difficult time.
The incident occurred when metal pallets, which are often used to transport industrial goods, unexpectedly collapsed on Rapp while he was performing his duties. The collapse led to the fatal asphyxiation, trapping Rapp beneath the heavy load of metal. Authorities from the Fleetwood Police Department, along with OSHA, have launched investigations to determine the specific circumstances that led to the collapse. OSHA’s involvement is crucial, as the agency is tasked with identifying any potential safety violations that may have contributed to the accident. While it is too early to determine the exact cause, investigations could take weeks or even months before conclusions are drawn.
East Penn Manufacturing has stated its commitment to ensuring a thorough investigation and addressing any findings that may result from the inquiry. In addition to expressing grief over the loss, the company acknowledged the dangers inherent in industrial work environments. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks that workers face in such settings and emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to workplace safety regulations.
At this stage, the details surrounding Stephen Rapp’s personal life remain private, but his death has deeply affected those who knew and worked with him. Colleagues and friends have spoken fondly of his character, underscoring the impact his loss will have on the tight-knit community at East Penn. Many have noted that while Rapp’s passing is an individual loss, it is also a collective one that highlights the broader risks associated with the manufacturing industry.
As the investigation unfolds, there is a strong possibility that East Penn Manufacturing, in partnership with regulatory agencies such as OSHA, will consider implementing additional safety measures and protocols to mitigate future accidents. The collapse of the metal pallets serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe working environment and the need for continuous improvement in safety procedures to protect workers in high-risk industries.
In conclusion, the tragic death of Stephen Rapp at East Penn Manufacturing underscores the critical need for ongoing vigilance in workplace safety. While investigations are still ongoing, the incident will likely lead to further scrutiny of industrial safety practices, and may prompt both the company and regulatory authorities to take additional steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.