AHSAHKA, Idaho – On the morning of June 30, at the Dworshak Dam project near Ahsahka, Idaho, Eric Engle, an employee of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was found deceased in a non-public area of the project. Crews immediately contacted 911 and the Clearwater County Sheriff's Office for assistance.
A total of five investigations ensued including the Clearwater County Sheriff’s office, Clearwater County Medical Examiner, Federal OSHA, USACE Safety Investigation Board and an investigation under Army Regulation 15-6.
On July 26, the Clearwater County coroner determined that the cause of Mr. Engle's death was carbon monoxide poisoning from inhalation of exhaust fumes.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is conducting a Safety Investigation Board external to the Walla Walla District to determine what factors within the district and the region should be reviewed, evaluated, and, if necessary, changed to prevent similar occurrences.
"Eric Engle was a valued member of his community and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps grieves the loss of his life and continues to offer sincere condolences to his family and loved ones,” Walla Walla District Commander LTC ShaiLin KingSlack said. “Mr. Engle's family has our commitment that we are conducting investigations into the factors surrounding his death. The ongoing investigations allows us to determine the root causes of the incident and better understand what happened. Taking care of people means keeping our workforce safe, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of our team. The loss of one teammate is one too many."
Eric Engle was a utility worker at the Dworshak Dam powerhouse who performed many key functions. The USACE is particularly proud of Eric’s contribution to the installation of the decorative lights on display at Dworshak Dam. The new red, white and blue lights were displayed at the Dam over the 4th of July holiday in his honor and memory, and they will continue to shine on as a reflection of his duty and service to the USACE and this great nation he loved.
Release no. 22-060