A longtime employee of Nan Ya Plastics Corporation in Lake City died in a tragic workplace accident early Saturday morning, according to the Florence County Coroner’s Office. The victim has been identified as 64-year-old Marron Shefton of Florence.
Authorities say the fatal incident occurred while Shefton was on the job, but the exact circumstances remain under investigation. Emergency responders were called to the facility shortly after the accident, but despite their efforts, Shefton was pronounced dead at the scene.
Shefton was a well-known figure at Nan Ya Plastics, a major manufacturing plant that produces various plastic materials for industrial use. The facility employs many residents from Florence and surrounding areas, and Shefton’s death has deeply impacted coworkers and community members alike.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched an investigation into the accident, joining efforts with the Florence County Coroner’s Office. Investigators will assess whether workplace safety protocols were followed and what, if any, factors contributed to the deadly incident.
At this time, officials have not disclosed how the accident occurred or what type of injuries Shefton sustained. Questions remain about whether equipment malfunction, human error, or environmental hazards may have played a role. OSHA is expected to conduct a thorough review of workplace conditions, employee training, and plant safety procedures.
Nan Ya Plastics has not yet issued a public statement but is believed to be cooperating with authorities. The company’s response and any findings from the investigation could lead to changes in safety practices or regulatory actions if violations are discovered.
The loss of Marron Shefton has left a void in the Florence community, where friends, family, and coworkers are grieving the unexpected tragedy. Once OSHA concludes its investigation, a full report will likely be released, offering more clarity on what led to the fatal incident and how similar tragedies might be prevented in the future.