APPLE VALLEY, Minn. — What started as horseplay between two co-workers during a tree-trimming job ended in tragedy after a hydraulic grapple allegedly crushed a 26-year-old man’s head.
Christopher Boone Crimmins, 34, is charged with second-degree manslaughter in connection with the death of Tyler Anthony Lynch, according to a criminal complaint filed in Dakota County.
The two men were working together in Apple Valley on Thursday afternoon when investigators say they began joking around with the equipment being used to clear branches.
According to the complaint, the pair noticed the shadows of the hydraulic grapple and Lynch on the ground. Crimmins allegedly began moving the grapple in a way that made it appear as though the machine was grabbing Lynch.
But investigators say Crimmins was focused on the shadows rather than Lynch himself. That reportedly led to a horrifying mistake.
Hydraulic Grapple Closes on Co-Worker
According to prosecutors, Crimmins did not realize the grapple was actually moving toward Lynch’s head until it was too late. The hydraulic grapple closed on Lynch’s head, causing a devastating injury.
Police later found Lynch on the ground with a large amount of blood around his body and a significant injury to his head, according to the Dakota County Attorney’s Office.
A witness who spoke with investigators reportedly saw the grapple hit or pinch Lynch’s head. The incident occurred while the crew was using the truck-mounted machinery to clear branches as part of the tree-trimming work.
Crimmins was reportedly the only member of the crew with the commercial license required to operate the machine, according to the criminal complaint.
Police Investigate Deadly Workplace Incident
Investigators are now examining exactly how the incident unfolded and what Crimmins was doing with the machinery immediately before Lynch was struck.
The criminal complaint says Crimmins told police that he and Lynch had been “f—— around” before the incident.
Authorities allege that the decision to move the grapple while focusing on the shadows rather than the actual position of his co-worker resulted in the fatal injury.
The case highlights the potentially deadly consequences of horseplay around heavy machinery, particularly equipment capable of exerting enough force to cause catastrophic injuries.
Lynch was 26 years old at the time of his death.
Crimmins Faces Manslaughter Charge
Crimmins has been charged with second-degree manslaughter, a serious criminal charge connected to Lynch’s death. The Dakota County Attorney’s Office said bail was set at $40,000 unconditional or $20,000 with conditions.
If convicted, Crimmins could face up to 10 years in prison.
As of Sunday afternoon, Crimmins was not listed in Dakota County Jail records. Court records were not immediately available, and it was unclear whether he had obtained legal representation.
A phone number listed for Crimmins did not receive an immediate response. The allegations against Crimmins remain allegations unless and until proven in court.
Court Date Set for September
Crimmins is expected to appear in court on September 10, according to the county attorney’s office.
The upcoming hearing is expected to be the next major step in the criminal case as prosecutors and the defense address the manslaughter charge.
For Lynch’s family, friends and co-workers, the case follows the death of a young man during what investigators say began as an attempt at workplace horseplay.
The investigation and court proceedings will determine the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident and whether Crimmins is ultimately held criminally responsible for Lynch’s death.
What do you think about the alleged prank involving heavy machinery? Share your thoughts in the comments.
