Authorities identify pharmaceutical employee who died from ethanol fumes
Officials have identified the employee of an Atwater Village pharmaceutical company who died while trying to help two colleagues who had been overcome by ethanol fumes.
Henry Astilla, 33, of Los Angeles, called 911 early Friday after noticing two Baxter Healthcare colleagues had collapsed while cleaning blood plasma from a tank, according to officials of the Los Angeles Fire Department and the coroner's office.
When firefighters and paramedics arrived at 4501 W. Colorado Blvd. about 4 a.m., officials said, they found Astilla without a pulse. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. The other two men survived. Their names have not been released.
Officials said the workers had been inside the tank, using detergent to clean it of blood plasma, and they were overcome by ethanol, which was used as a separating agent for blood plasma.
Cal/OSHA plans to investigate the incident.
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EDITOR'S PICKS:
Henry was a hard worker and very respectful. I worked with him at Baxter and i thought to myself this kid (although he was older than I he looked much younger) is going to be a lead op one day. Sad to hear his life ended in this fashion. Much love and respect to his family.
Posted by: R. Rangel | January 22, 2011 at 01:35 PM
If you don't have health insurance and get sick, the tax payers have to pay for it anyway- so go get health insurance please- search online "Wise Health Insurance" and learn how you can get insurance at discount price.
Posted by: charlesleach | January 22, 2011 at 11:47 PM
R. Rangel,
I am one of the family member of the other victim in critical condition. Will you be able to send me Henry's family's contact so we can pay respects to him and his family. Thank you.
Posted by: Heartbroken | January 24, 2011 at 10:14 AM
When working for Baxter in fractionation 2007, I remember Henry as a hard worker as well, he was quiet and to himself, but got the job done when needed. This is very sad and feel great sorrow to his family.
Posted by: Sergio Garcia Jr. | January 26, 2011 at 03:07 AM
henry just left your viewing I sure will miss you, you were always such a helping person always willing to help anyone..
miss you buddy!
Posted by: RR | February 04, 2011 at 06:58 PM