A longtime Harrisburg, PA, mechanic, known for his generosity and strong ties to the community, was killed in a workplace accident Feb. 20 when a vehicle fell from a lift inside his auto repair shop.
The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. at A-1 Auto Repair on North 6th Street, according to Harrisburg police. The victim, 61-year-old Ali Abdoulaye, was working underneath a vehicle alongside another employee when the lift reportedly gave out, causing the car to fall, according to reporting by Penn Live.
“There was no evidence of any criminal acts,” said Harrisburg Police Lt. Kyle Gautsch, who confirmed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was notified for a workplace investigation.
The Dauphin County coroner’s office later confirmed Abdoulaye’s death was caused by multiple traumatic injuries, and ruled it accidental.
Eyewitnesses said Abdoulaye’s coworker, who had been holding a flashlight during the repair, ran next door in shock, desperately seeking help. Luis Jimenez, an employee at Las Mercedes Mini Market, rushed over and attempted to rescue Abdoulaye by using a car jack to lift the vehicle. However, Abdoulaye was unresponsive.
Abdoulaye, affectionately called “Mechanic Ali” by those in the area, was a well-known and respected member of the community. Neighbors described him as a selfless individual who was always willing to help others.
“He has been a strong member of this community for a long time,” Harrisburg resident Amy Bangura told Penn Live. “I can’t believe this tragic accident. He was a father figure to us around here.”
Originally from Niger, Abdoulaye moved to Harrisburg in 2007 to pursue a career as a mechanic. He spoke multiple languages, including Spanish, French and English. Friends said he had suffered previous loss -- his wife had passed away -- and he leaves behind several children.
Fausto Tejada, owner of the neighboring mini market, called Abdoulaye “the greatest person that came into the community.”
“Everybody loved him and always wanted to make sure he was OK,” Tejada said. “I’m going to miss having him around. We hardly sell coffee here, but we always have to have it just for him every morning.”
