November 6, 2002 -- A contract worker performing asbestos abatement at Jones Hall died of injuries resulting from an accidental fall early this morning.

A licensed asbestos worker employed by Certified/LVI Environmental Services, Inc., was pronounced dead at the scene by attending medical personnel at approximately 4:30 a.m. His name is being withheld pending notification of family.

The worker was performing asbestos containment from a scaffold in the attic of Jones Hall when he apparently fell from his position and broke through the marble floor and fell 55 feet, landing on the sidewalk scaffolding near the corner of Louisiana and Texas.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the accident.

A fund to benefit the worker's family has been established at Jones Hall. To contribute, please call 713.227.3974.