Wilmington Man Loses His Legs

WWAY TV 3 WILMINGTON -- An accident at Wilmington's WASTEC plant has cost a man both of his legs. Officials say the man climbed onto a piece of machinery and fell in. Ernesto Gonzalez, an employee at WASTEC was operating a bailer at the time. The machine is used to compact about 20 tons of recyclable goods, like cardboard and newspaper, each day. Officials say Gonzalez climbed on top of the bailer, ignoring many warning signs and safety procedures. He then fell inside. He triggered a sensor, automatically starting the machine, which then amputated both of Gonzalez's legs. Officials say they'll now take extra precautions when training operators and will keep the bailer shut down for the next few days.