In 2013, a tragic accident took place on a construction site in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A giant crane known as the "Big Blue" collapsed onto the site, killing three people and injuring several others. The operator of the crane, 44-year-old Lomma Crane owner James Lomma, was recently sentenced to one to three years in prison for his role in the accident.
The Accident
The collapse of the Big Blue crane was a devastating event that shook the construction industry. The crane, which was being used to lift a massive heating and cooling system, suddenly snapped and fell to the ground. The incident killed three workers and injured several others. The accident caused millions of dollars in damages and led to a lengthy investigation into the cause of the collapse.
The Investigation
After the accident, investigators discovered that the Big Blue crane had been improperly maintained and was not in compliance with safety regulations. The crane had been modified to increase its lifting capacity, but these modifications had not been approved by the manufacturer. The investigation also revealed that the crane operator, James Lomma, had a history of safety violations and had been involved in several previous accidents.
The Trial
James Lomma was charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in connection with the accident. During the trial, prosecutors argued that Lomma had ignored safety regulations and had put profits before the safety of his workers. The defense argued that Lomma was not responsible for the accident and that it was caused by a faulty part on the crane. In the end, a jury found Lomma guilty of two counts of criminally negligent homicide.
The Sentence
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James Lomma was sentenced to one to three years in prison for his role in the accident. The judge in the case called Lomma's actions "reckless" and "deplorable" and said that he had shown a "callous disregard" for the safety of his workers. Lomma's lawyers have said that they plan to appeal the verdict.
The Aftermath
The collapse of the Big Blue crane had a profound impact on the construction industry. It led to increased scrutiny of crane safety regulations and prompted many companies to reevaluate their safety procedures. The families of the victims have also been deeply affected by the accident and have filed lawsuits against James Lomma and his company.
Conclusion
The Big Blue crane accident was a tragic event that had far-reaching consequences. The sentencing of James Lomma sends a message that those who ignore safety regulations and put profits before the lives of their workers will be held accountable for their actions. It is our hope that this tragedy will lead to increased awareness of crane safety and ultimately prevent future accidents from occurring.