Worker Killed in Clifton Industrial Accident Identified as Jose Centeno

Clifton, NJ – Authorities have identified 73-year-old Jose D. Centeno, an Elizabeth resident, as the victim of a fatal industrial accident that occurred Tuesday afternoon in Clifton. Centeno, an employee at Ricova Recycling, was involved in a machinery-related incident at the company’s facility on 1 Broad Street.

The accident happened around 3:28 p.m. when emergency responders received a call reporting that Centeno had sustained serious injuries while operating machinery. Upon arrival, first responders pronounced him dead at the scene. The exact circumstances that led to the fatal injury remain under investigation, though Clifton Police have confirmed the incident is currently classified as an accidental death.

Ricova Recycling, where Centeno had been employed, operates a large recycling facility at the location. Workplace accidents of this nature are not uncommon in industrial settings, where heavy machinery can pose serious hazards to workers, even with safety protocols in place.

In addition to the Clifton Police Department’s initial investigation, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched an inquiry into the incident. OSHA, responsible for enforcing workplace safety standards, will examine the safety protocols at Ricova Recycling and assess whether any violations of federal regulations contributed to the fatal accident. According to federal guidelines, OSHA has up to six months to complete its investigation and issue a report on their findings.

This tragedy highlights the ongoing risks workers face in industrial environments and underscores the importance of stringent safety measures. Both OSHA and local authorities are working to determine if any additional safeguards could prevent similar incidents in the future.

Anyone with relevant information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Clifton Police Department. Meanwhile, Centeno’s family and colleagues are mourning his loss, with tributes pouring in to remember him as a dedicated worker and valued member of the community.