Taunton Mourns the Sudden Loss of Mark Peters, 49, in Tragic Workplace Accident at Mid City Scrap Yard
October 11, 2025 — Westport, MA
It is with deep sadness and a profound sense of loss that the community of Taunton, Massachusetts, is mourning the death of Mark Peters, 49, a dedicated worker, loving family man, and friend to many, who tragically lost his life in a workplace accident on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Mid City Scrap Yard in Westport.
The fatal incident occurred during what should have been a routine day at the scrap yard, where Mark had been employed for several years. According to preliminary reports from the Westport Police Department and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), emergency crews responded to an emergency call shortly before noon regarding a serious industrial accident at the facility.
Upon arrival, first responders found Mark Peters unresponsive following a mechanical incident involving heavy equipment. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by on-site personnel and EMTs, Peters was pronounced dead at the scene. OSHA and local authorities have launched an active investigation to determine the exact circumstances and whether safety protocols were followed.
A Life of Hard Work and Deep Devotion
Mark Peters was more than just an employee — he was a man known throughout the Taunton area for his unwavering work ethic, humility, and loyalty to those he loved. Born and raised in Taunton, Mark graduated from Taunton High School in 1994 and had spent much of his adult life working in industrial and mechanical jobs. He joined Mid City Scrap Yard nearly a decade ago, where coworkers say he was admired for his reliability and team spirit.
“He was the kind of guy who showed up early, stayed late, and never complained,” said a longtime coworker, Dave Reynolds. “You could always count on Mark. He took pride in everything he did, and he treated everyone with respect.”
Mark was also a devoted father, husband, and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Lori Peters, their two children, Jessica and Ryan, and two young grandchildren, who were the center of his world.
“Mark was everything to our family,” said Lori in a brief statement. “He worked hard every day so we could have a better life. He was kind, loving, and selfless. We are absolutely heartbroken.”
Family members shared that Mark enjoyed spending weekends working on old cars, cheering on the New England Patriots, and taking fishing trips with his son. He was a fixture at family barbecues, known for manning the grill and telling stories that would have everyone laughing.
Community Response
The Taunton and Westport communities have rallied around the Peters family in the wake of the tragedy. Local businesses, neighbors, and friends have offered meals, donations, and words of comfort, reflecting just how many lives Mark touched.
A memorial fund has been established through Taunton Federal Credit Union to assist the family with funeral costs and provide ongoing support. A candlelight vigil is being organized for Monday evening at Hopewell Park in Taunton, where friends, family, and former colleagues will gather to honor Mark’s memory and offer support to one another.
“We’ve lost one of the good ones,” said Maria DeSouza, a neighbor and family friend. “Mark was the backbone of his family. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
Workplace Safety Investigation Underway
The incident has also raised renewed concerns about workplace safety, particularly in high-risk industries like scrap metal and recycling. OSHA officials have confirmed that they are conducting a full investigation into the incident to determine if any safety regulations were violated or if equipment malfunctioned.
“This is a terrible tragedy,” said OSHA spokesperson Anthony Delaney. “We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to understand exactly what happened and to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.”
Mid City Scrap Yard released a brief statement Friday evening expressing condolences to the Peters family:
“We are devastated by the loss of our colleague and friend, Mark Peters. Our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time. We are fully cooperating with authorities as they investigate the cause of this tragic accident.”
Mark’s death is a sobering reminder of the risks that many essential workers face every day. Labor organizations across Massachusetts are calling for stricter enforcement of safety measures in industrial workplaces to prevent further tragedies.
Funeral Arrangements
The Peters family has announced that visitation will be held at O’Keefe-Wade Funeral Home in Taunton on Wednesday, October 15, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place the following day, Thursday, October 16, at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Mayflower Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to the Mark Peters Memorial Fund, established at Taunton Federal Credit Union to support his grandchildren’s education and to promote workplace safety awareness.
In Loving Memory of Mark Peters (1976–2025)
A hard worker, a devoted father, a loyal friend. Your hands built a life for your family, and your heart held them all together. You are gone too soon, but your legacy of love, integrity, and dedication will live on forever.
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