A Minnesota man faces a second-degree manslaughter charge after allegedly killing his co-worker by crushing his head with a hydraulic grapple. The incident occurred on August 20 in Apple Valley during a tree-trimming job.
Christopher Boone Crimmins, 34, was operating a boom from his seat while Tyler Anthony Lynch, 26, was on the ground collecting branches. According to the criminal complaint, Crimmins told officers that he and Lynch were "f—king around" when they noticed the shadow cast by the grapple and Lynch on the street. Crimmins then maneuvered the grapple, intending to make its shadow appear to grab Lynch's shadow. He stated he was not paying attention as the grapple moved closer to his co-worker.
Lynch was found on the ground with a significant head injury and a large amount of blood pooled around him. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities reported that Lynch frequently shared photos and videos of his work, along with inspirational quotes, on Facebook.
Crimmins was taken into custody and booked at the Dakota County Jail. He is being held on $40,000 bail without conditions, or $20,000 with conditions. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 10.