A UPS driver in Texas tragically passed away after falling ill during a scorching heat wave. Christopher Begley, 57, died shortly after becoming sick while on his route in North Texas, where temperatures soared above 100 degrees. The exact cause of his death is still under investigation. UPS has expressed its cooperation with authorities and emphasized its commitment to responding promptly to any requests for help related to heat stress.
Christopher Begley, a dedicated UPS employee of 27 years, first reported feeling unwell on August 23. He was immediately taken off duty and later requested and received several days off from work. UPS promptly responded to his call for assistance, providing him with water and ensuring he rested in a cool environment. However, Begley declined medical assistance multiple times, informing the company that he had recovered. UPS management was shocked to learn several days later that Begley had been hospitalized and subsequently passed away.
This fatal incident occurred just a month after UPS reached an agreement with the Teamsters Union, which included the installation of air conditioning in delivery vans and other improvements to drivers’ working conditions. The issue of installing AC units in UPS trucks had been a major concern for union members, who had threatened to strike earlier in the summer. The new contract was ratified on August 22, addressing the need for better working conditions.
UPS has emphasized its commitment to training employees to recognize the symptoms of heat stress and responding immediately to any requests for help. The company is cooperating with authorities in their investigation into the cause of Begley’s death. Last year, UPS drivers shared photos showing thermometers inside the trucks reading temperatures of up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. These images, along with a video of a UPS driver collapsing from apparent heat exhaustion, sparked public outrage.