A Minnesota man faces a manslaughter charge after allegedly crushing his coworker's head with a hydraulic grapple attachment while on a job in Apple Valley. Christopher Boone Crimmins, 34, has been charged with one count of second-degree manslaughter in the death of 26-year-old Tyler Anthony Lynch.
The incident occurred Thursday afternoon while the two were working for a tree-trimming company. According to a criminal complaint filed in Dakota County, Crimmins was operating the grapple machinery from the back of a truck, while Lynch was on the ground picking up leaves.
Crimmins told police that he and Lynch were "f***ing around" and noticed the shadow of the grapple and his own head on the ground. He then moved the grapple to create an effect that made it appear to be grabbing Lynch's head. Investigators stated that Crimmins was focused on the shadow rather than Lynch directly and did not realize the grapple had closed around his coworker's head.
A witness informed investigators that they saw the grapple "hit or pinch" Lynch. Authorities contend that Crimmins exhibited "culpable negligence" and created "unreasonable risk."
Police responded to a report of a severely injured man near 5200 block of 132nd Street West, where they found Lynch with significant head trauma and a large amount of blood. Lynch was pronounced dead at the scene.
Lynch had been working in professional tree services since 2021, according to his social media. A family member posted on Facebook expressing condolences and prayers for Lynch's family.
If convicted, Crimmins could face up to 10 years in prison. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 10th in Hastings, Minnesota. The Occupational and Health Safety Administration is currently investigating whether safety violations or other factors contributed to the incident.
Funeral and memorial service details have not yet been announced.