Dalzell man dies from injuries in Peru industrial accident

A worker in Peru died from injuries sustained in a Feb. 21 industrial accident.

William L. Schmollinger Jr., 55, of Dalzell, died Friday “as a result of an accident at his work,” according to the obituary published by Hurst Funeral Home in La Salle.

Peru police had issued a report a worker, later identified as Schmollinger, was injured after becoming stuck in a conveyor at American Nickeloid, Peru. He was freed and reported unconscious when Peru Fire and EMS responded to the scene.

Schmollinger was flown by LifeFlight Helicopter directly to St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, where he initially was listed in critical condition.

“Our thoughts are with Bill’s family, friends and co-workers during this difficult time,” said Susan Jones, human resources manager for American Nickeloid, in a statement issued within a day of the accident.