Ryan Sharpe

Two years after an Edmonton man sustained fatal injuries while on shift at a northern Alberta pulp mill, workplace safety charges have been laid in his death. Ryan Sharpe, a heavy duty mechanic, died March 13, 2024, while servicing a wheel loader at the pulp mill in Slave Lake, about 450 kilometres north of Edmonton. The 30-year-old was positioned underneath the Caterpillar heavy construction machine, which was elevated on wooden blocks, when it unexpectedly shifted. He died of his injuries. Provincial safety investigators announced charges in his death earlier this month, alleging the companies involved in Sharpe’s work at the pulp mill failed to ensure his safety. Pacesetter Equipment and West Fraser Mills operating as Slave Lake Pulp are facing a total of five counts under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.  Sharpe’s mother, Terri-Lynn Sharpe, said, “I’m still trying to process the charges but hoping that they make a difference.”