PARSIPPANY-TROY HILLS, N.J. (Morris County) — A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of a Morris County mechanic who died Monday after becoming trapped beneath a forklift while working at his shop in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Police identified the victim as a 48-year-old man who was found unresponsive beneath a forklift at a business located at 792 Edwards Road.
According to Parsippany police, officers responded at approximately 4:17 p.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting a man pinned under the vehicle. Responding officers used a nearby floor jack to lift the forklift and free the victim, but authorities said he had already succumbed to his injuries.
Par-Troy EMS, Saint Clare’s paramedics and Parsippany Fire District No. 5 also assisted at the scene.
The Parsippany Police Department Investigative Branch, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are investigating the incident.
Police said the death is not currently believed to be criminal in nature.
Following the tragedy, family friend Nicolas Limanov created a GoFundMe campaign identifying the victim as Ufuk Yasan, a diesel mechanic and business owner who had immigrated from Turkey to build a better life for his family.
“We are heartbroken to share the tragic loss of our dear friend, Ufuk Yasan, who passed away at just 49 years old while repairing a forklift at his shop,” the fundraiser states.
According to the campaign, Yasan recently fulfilled his dream of opening his own business and regularly worked 50 to 60 hours per week repairing trucks, trailers and vehicles for customers throughout the region.
“No matter how exhausted he was, Ufuk was always the first person willing to help someone in need,” the fundraiser states. “He was known for his generosity, kindness, and incredible work ethic.”
Yasan leaves behind his wife and 2-year-old son. Organizers said the fundraiser will help cover funeral expenses and fulfill Yasan’s wish of being buried in his native Turkey.
“Any donation, no matter the amount, will help support Ufuk’s family during this heartbreaking time,” the campaign states.
Donations can be made through the GoFundMe page.
