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Dozens walk off job after worker dies at Smithfield Foods plant in Monmouth

KWQC • September 15, 2026 • business

Key Points:

A worker died in a workplace incident involving machinery at Smithfield Foods' Monmouth plant, prompting grief and distress among employees.
Despite the fatality, management ordered production to continue, leading to a walkout by approximately 100 employees, many of whom were upset by the decision.
This incident marks the fourth death reported at the Monmouth plant, with previous fatalities attributed to health issues; this is the first known death caused by a machine.
OSHA and local authorities are investigating the accident, and Smithfield Foods expressed condolences, stating that safety personnel remain on site.
The identity of the deceased worker has not been released, and employees criticized the company for perceived disrespect toward the victim and staff by continuing operations immediately after the incident.

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