A 61-year-old contractor died Thursday following an accident at a Rivian Automotive warehouse in Normal, Illinois. Kevin Lancaster was pinned between a semi-trailer and a loading dock on the afternoon of March 5, 2026. Emergency crews responded to the facility on West Kerrick Road, which operates separately from Rivian’s primary manufacturing plant. Lancaster was pronounced dead after being transported to a local medical center.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Normal Police Department have launched investigations into the fatality. Rivian confirmed the deceased was a contractor and stated the company is cooperating with local authorities. Management expressed sympathy for the individual and stated that workplace safety remains a top priority.
This incident brings renewed scrutiny to Rivian’s safety performance in Illinois. The company has previously faced multiple OSHA complaints and citations at its facilities within the state.