GEORGETOWN, SC – A devastating accident at Santee Cooper’s Winyah Generating Station in Georgetown has resulted in the death of a contracted worker, marking the second fatality at the facility in less than a year.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene early Tuesday morning after reports that a worker had been struck. Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding the circumstances of the accident.
Georgetown County Coroner Chase Ridgeway confirmed that the victim was Billy Whitnauer, a truck driver employed by a contracted firm. Ridgeway stated that an autopsy would be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
In a statement following the tragic incident, a spokesperson for Santee Cooper expressed condolences:
“This is a tragic event, and our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone impacted.”
The accident has prompted an investigation by Santee Cooper Safety officials as well as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to determine what led to the fatal incident.
Whitnauer’s death comes less than a year after another tragic loss at the same facility. On May 23, 2024, 23-year-old Cody Jordan, a contract worker for EMCOR, was killed in a coal mound collapse at the plant.
The repeated fatalities at the Winyah Generating Station raise concerns about safety measures at the facility, and investigators will be working to assess whether any changes are needed to prevent future tragedies.
Friends, family, and colleagues are mourning the loss of Whitnauer, remembering him as a hardworking individual who dedicated his time to his job. Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be announced by the family in the coming days.
As the investigation unfolds, the community and industry officials will be watching closely to ensure that workplace safety remains a top priority to prevent further loss of life.