Probe launched after film worker and father of three killed in accident
A local longtime film and TV production worker and father-of-three died in a fatal accident earlier this week, and WorkSafeBC is now investigating.
Aron Koel worked on more than 30 big and small-screen productions, including Deadpool, Star Trek Beyond and Planet of the Apes, according to his IMDb page.
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An online obituary for Koel, who was in his 30s, says he died on March 9 “doing what he loved, working outside.”
Described as a “talented arborist and gentle soul,” he leaves behind his wife Olympia and three young sons.
“Ironic to all he was not 200 feet up a fir tree with a chainsaw, or deep sea diving with sharks,” his obit reads.
An online fundraiser to support his widow and children has raised nearly $84,000 in one day.
Koel was a member of IATSE Local 891. In a message on social media, the union said its 891 members and members of the BC film community are donating funds to “support the family during this difficult time.”
GoFundMe
Although details of what caused his death are scarce — and whether he was working on a film set — WorkSafeBC said it was notified the day after his death about the fatal accident.
It happened on a Forest Service Road south of Britannia Beach, said Acting Senior Manager Gillian Burnett.
The agency is tasked with investigating serious injuries and deaths that happen when people are at work. The BC Coroner Service confirmed to Daily Hive it was notified of the death.
GoFundMe
A funeral and visitation for Koel is being held Thursday in Vancouver.
Aron Koel, a member of IATSE Local 891, passed away on March 9, leaving behind his wife & 3 young children. 891 members & the rest of the BC film community are donating funds to support the family during this difficult time. #bcfilmcares #891supports https://t.co/n07Xc1J41x
— IATSE Local 891 (@IATSE891) March 12, 2019
I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family of Aron Koel, who passed away this week. A greensperson in B.C.’s film industry, Aron was a dedicated arborist and a member of @IATSE891. He had over 30 film and tv credits under his belt. #BCFilm
— Lisa Beare (@lisabeare) March 14, 2019
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