Citizens raise funds for the family of a man who died in an accident at a fertilizer plant in Pasco

Franklin County, Washington — The public is asked to help the family of a man who died in a tragic industrial accident in Pasco.

Not much is known about the accident, but it happened Friday night at Two Rivers Terminal, a fertilizer plant. We’re told 56-year-old Viktor Voloshin was cleaning his truck trailer when he either fell or climbed into the trailer.

Chief Mike Harris of Franklin County Fire District 3 explains, “At this point, we upgraded the operation to a technical rescue because we realized it was likely a confined space and therefore we would need specialized tools and equipment and some supervision to be able to safely enter and perform a rescue.”

Voloshin was last seen on security cameras at 4:15 p.m. standing on a ladder and spraying the interior of the tanker. About 50 minutes later, employees called 911 when they noticed Viktor was missing.

He was found dead in the tanker. The cause of death is still unknown, but due to the contents of the tank, rescue workers had to take special precautions.

“We determined it was sulfur, a liquid sulfur fertilizer that is very commonly used in Eastern Washington on fruit trees and other crops. But it releases hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide. Both of these fumes can overwhelm someone in the right amounts and be toxic or fatal,” says Chief Harris.

Franklin County Coroner Curtis McGary says an autopsy is scheduled for later this week.

Chief Harris tells us the incident is a tragedy for the entire community. “It affects the family, but in this case, it also affects his work family. His coworkers, the people who know him as well as his family, because that’s where he spends most of his time.”

Harris is asking the community to donate to the family during their grieving period. Viktor leaves behind 12 children and 16 grandchildren. The community has already collected thousands. The link to donate can be found here.