Worker killed by machinery

(AP) Austin police Wednesday said a tragic accident left a worker dead inside a shop on South Congress. A customer to Ace Alterations and Cleaners discovered the gruesome scene Wednesday morning. It made me a little nervous to see yellow tape when I drove up this morning," said Joe Pettyjohn, South Congress area resident.

Neighbors along South Congress were on edge all morning as homicide detectives surrounded Ace Expert Alterations at 1117 S. Congress. "I was a little unnerved about it," said Pettyjohn.
They looked on as detectives investigated what they first called a "suspicious death."

Police said a customer discovered the body of a worker around 10:00 this morning and called 911. Police say the body had suffered severe trauma. Several hours later, police ruled her death an accident "It is believed that the victim suffered significant trauma to her head but it was caused by machinery in the business and it was accidental," said Veneza Aguinaga, Austin Police Department.

Police identified the woman as Mei Wong, 54. Customers say she worked at the business a long time "She's very sweet, very accommodating and has been taking care of people here on South Congress in the downtown area for many years," said Pettyjohn. By 3 p.m., police had cleared the scene, and customers -- who tried to pick-up their clothes -- learned the business was closed. They had no idea what happened. "I'm in shock. I am in shock. I just came to pick up my jacket and learned of this. It's a horrible thing," said James Deeds, customer.

Customers say it is a tragic loss for the community. "Very nice, very nice lady. Very good people - did good work. It's just a shocking thing. It's bad any time - but around Christmas time it's terrible," said Deeds. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is also investigating this workplace death.

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