Santa Maria family searches for answers in death of field worker

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.ksby.com/Global/story.asp?S=8663773

Posted: July 11, 2008 07:40 PM

Friday, July 11, 2008
Reported by: Melissa Mecija


A Santa Maria farm worker who died in triple-digit heat last month is laid to rest.

According to the United Farm Workers of America, 64-year-old Jose Macarena Hernandez died during a record-breaking heat wave on June 20. The UFW says 12 farm workers have died since 2004, and another one passed away just this week.

Family members said it is frustrating to know there is still no explanation for why Jose Macarena Hernandez had to die.

Hernandez has been a field worker for many years. It is those same fields that claimed his life.

On June 20, Hernandez's family said he was working under 110-degree heat picking squash. He stopped to use the restroom and did not come out alive.

Family members said Hernandez's body was blistered when it was discovered.

"We have a lot of unanswered questions that no one has come forth. The employer has not contacted us to at least, explain the situation, what was going on that day, was he not feeling well," said Hernandez's niece, Maria Elena Curiel.

Three weeks after his death, Hernandez was laid to rest. Though it was a small gathering at St. Louis de Montfort Church, his passing left a big void in the family members mourning his loss. Now they, and the UFW, want answers.

FULL story and photos at link.