UFCW 401 supports Quesada family in their criminal complaint against Cargill High River

High River, Alta. – January 13, 2021 – The family of Benito Quesada, a UFCW Local 401 Shop Steward and Cargill employee who died on May 7, 2020 as a result of COVID-19, has asked the RCMP to investigate his workplace death as a criminal matter.

Statement by UFCW Local 401: 

“The Quesada family has suffered an unimaginable loss. They are courageously taking this step in an effort to seek justice for Benito, asking the R.C.M.P. to investigate the possibility of criminal negligence in Benito’s death.

As a criminal matter, the outcome of the Quesada family’s complaint is in the hands of R.C.M.P. and the Crown.

Benito’s death was a tragedy. As a union shop steward, Benito stood up for his coworkers every day. The best way we can honour Benito is to stand by his family as they stand up for him.

As Benito’s union, we will continue to stand in solidarity with his family and all workers who face the threat of COVID-19 in their workplaces.”

It has been reported that the Cargill High River outbreak has been connected to 951 employees contracting COVID-19 and at least three related deaths. Hundreds more in the High River and Calgary communities were impacted by the spread of COVID-19.

To find out more, visit UFCW Local 401.