Tragic Forklift Accident Claims Life of Recent High School Graduate

News Summary

An 18-year-old West Linn High School graduate, Lucas Gray, tragically lost his life in a forklift accident at a construction site. The incident occurred during a summer job just days before the end of his employment. The community is mourning the loss and has come together for memorials, while investigations by OSHA are underway to determine the cause of the accident.

West Linn, Oregon — 18-Year-Old Graduate Lucas Gray Killed in Forklift Accident at Construction Site

An 18-year-old recent graduate from West Linn High School lost his life in a forklift accident at a construction site in Oregon City. The incident occurred while Lucas Gray was working on a summer job just two days before completing his employment period. The tragic event has deeply impacted the local community, prompting ongoing investigations and numerous memorial activities.

Fatal Accident Details and Immediate Response

Lucas Gray, who graduated from West Linn High School in June 2025, was working for West Linn Construction Company, ICON, at a construction site when the accident happened. He was involved in a severe incident involving a forklift, which resulted in critical injuries. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but Lucas sustained injuries that were life-threatening.

His mother, Catherine Gray, was informed about the accident and initially found it hard to believe, describing her reaction as feeling like she was watching a scene from a bad movie. She later recounted that she was able to see and kiss Lucas one last time before he was transported to a hospital. Unfortunately, her efforts were not enough, and Lucas succumbed to his injuries.

Investigation and Company Response

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Details regarding safety procedures and potential violations are part of the ongoing inquiry. The construction company expressed deep sorrow over Lucas’s death and extended condolences to his family, ensuring that they are cooperating fully with authorities.

Community and Family Tributes

Following Lucas’s passing, friends and family organized a vigil at West Linn High School to honor his memory. The community has responded with heartfelt support and remembrance. A close friend, Will Ingle, shared memories of their shared experiences, emphasizing Lucas’s kindness, leadership qualities, and adventurous spirit.

Personal Background and Achievements

Lucas was widely admired for his compassion and acceptance of others, qualities that made him a beloved member of his school and local community. During his time at West Linn High School, he participated actively in sports, including football and wrestling. His athletic prowess was recognized with multiple awards, notably for his courage and selflessness, earning him the “heart of a lion” award in wrestling.

He was passionate about his future plans, intending to major in business at the University of Utah in the fall. Lucas had been working diligently to save money for college and was enthusiastic about his construction job, joking that while construction work was tough, wrestling was even more challenging.

Final Moments and Legacy

Catherine Gray shared that she was grateful for the last moment she had with her son, describing how she felt a spiritual communication after his passing. His desire to pursue higher education and entrepreneurial pursuits remains a testament to his aspirations and vibrant personality.

The loss of Lucas Gray marks a profound tragedy for the West Linn community. The school district issued an official statement expressing their grief and support for Lucas’s family and friends. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety at construction sites and the risks faced by young workers.

As investigations continue, efforts are underway to support Lucas’s family and honor his memory through community activities and educational initiatives. The community’s love and respect for Lucas will ensure that his legacy endures beyond this tragic event.

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Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC

WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.

STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC

WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.

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