Teamsters Local 70 in Oakland, California is mourning the death of 36-year-old Jose Camarena, a Waste Management worker who was fatally struck by a vehicle on Monday, April 28 in Oakland.

“One of our own has fallen and we are all very sad,” said Rob Dias, chief steward and Local 70’s Recording Secretary. “We send our condolences to Jose’s family and to the Teamster brothers and sisters who knew and worked with Jose.”

The accident occurred just before 6 a.m. when a car crashed into Camarena and pinned him against his truck, according to Oakland police. The accident remained under investigation.

“At this point it looks like a tragic accident,” Dias said. “Jose and his partner had the truck’s flasher lights on, but the driver apparently didn’t see him until it was too late. We hope to see the final police report soon.”

“We are deeply saddened that one of our solid waste members has been killed on the job,” said Bob Morales, Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste, Recycling and Related Industries Division. “This tragic accident further illustrates the dangers our solid waste members face every day on the job.”

Camarena worked at Waste Management for 19 years and was a Teamster for most of that time. When the accident occurred, he was working as a residential rear-end loader.

A private funeral is scheduled Friday, May 2 and a public service will take place from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 at St. Philip Neri Church, 3108 Van Buren St., Alameda. A reception will follow immediately after the May 7 service at Local 70 in the auditorium, from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

Camarena’s coworkers may donate unused sick days, vacation days or personal time off to help support his family. Waste Management will match all donations dollar for dollar up to $50,000.

Those interested in making a cash donation to his family should visit their local Wells Fargo Bank branch. Let the teller know you are making a donation to: “The Memorial Fund for Jose Camarena.”