Paul Ledwell Jr Halifax, Massachusetts Death and Obituary – The community of Middleborough, Massachusetts, is mourning the tragic loss of Paul Ledwell Jr., 37, who was one of two men killed in a devastating crane collapse in Everett, Massachusetts, on Friday, October 24, 2025. Although some early reports mistakenly linked the incident to Halifax, authorities have confirmed that the fatal accident occurred at a construction site along the Mystic River at the former Exxon Mobil terminal in Everett.
According to preliminary findings, the crane collapse happened in the afternoon when the crane’s cables suddenly snapped, causing the massive equipment to fall. The cause of the malfunction remains under investigation by state and federal workplace safety officials. Emergency responders from Everett and surrounding towns rushed to the site, but despite their efforts, two workers were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
One of the victims has been identified as Paul Ledwell Jr., a highly skilled pile driver and construction professional who came from a long line of contractors. Known among colleagues for his dedication, precision, and tireless work ethic, Ledwell was an integral part of his team and a respected member of the construction community.
The second victim was 44-year-old Larriston Lake of Roslindale, who also lost his life in the collapse. Both men were part of a crew working on infrastructure improvements at the waterfront site when the incident occurred. Officials from OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety have joined efforts to determine whether equipment failure, maintenance issues, or other contributing factors led to the catastrophic event.
Ledwell’s family and friends are heartbroken over his sudden and tragic passing. Described by loved ones as a devoted father, a hardworking professional, and a “gentle soul,” he was admired for his kindness, humility, and deep love for his family. Those close to him say he approached life with quiet strength and compassion, always putting the well-being of others before his own.
Tributes have poured in across social media from friends, coworkers, and fellow tradesmen expressing their grief and sharing fond memories of working alongside Ledwell. His loss is being felt not only by his family but also by the greater Massachusetts construction community, which has suffered multiple workplace tragedies in recent years.
Funeral and memorial arrangements for Paul Ledwell Jr. are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days. As the investigation continues, authorities and safety advocates are emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and improved safety standards in construction and heavy machinery operations to prevent future tragedies.
Paul Ledwell Jr.’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched—with his unwavering work ethic, his deep love for his children and family, and his quiet dedication to building a better world, one project at a time.
