"The entire Barnes Farming team is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of one of our co-workers. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife, two children, and family," says a statement from the company.
José Arturo Gónzalez Mendoza was a 30-year-old H-2A visa guest farmworker from Mexico who began employment at the company's farm on August 25, 2023. This was his first year working on the farm. He was harvesting sweet potatoes on the morning of September 5th when he reported to his field supervisor that he was not feeling well and went back to rest on the bus (farmworker transportation used to travel to/from the field) until he felt better. Shortly thereafter, on-site management personnel checked on him and immediately called 911 for medical assistance.
At this time, the cause of death is unknown but understand that state officials are performing an autopsy to determine exactly what happened.
"The health and safety of our employees is of the utmost importance and is taken very seriously at Barnes Farming. Our company makes every effort to comply with all regulatory requirements and we follow well-established policies concerning workplace safety and environmental conditions," the statement said.
As a member of the NC Growers Association, Barnes Farming is working closely with the Association to take care of the funeral and other necessary arrangements. Barnes Farming is also working with the NC Growers Association and their chaplains to arrange and offer on-site grief counseling, as well as religious and psychological support services to all employees who would like to participate.
