Antonio Harper, 30, a haul truck driver with just over a year of experience died October 5 at 7:57 p.m. after a front end loader struck him.
The mine, controlled by Blount Holdings Inc. and Forward Air Control LLC, is a surface operation specializing in common sand extraction. The Oct. 5 incident underscores the persistent safety challenges associated with powered haulage, a leading cause of mining fatalities in the United States.
MSHA’s preliminary reports do not yet specify the exact circumstances of the incident or the enforcement actions that may follow. Historically, powered haulage has been one of the most hazardous aspects of mining operations.
The Cyber Square facility, operational since 2022, plays a significant role in supporting the Haynesville area’s completion activities by providing essential sand for hydraulic fracturing. Moreover, the site spans across parts of Caddo and Bossier parishes and includes sand sorting, washing, and processing facilities.
Despite technological advancements and regulatory efforts, powered haulage remains a significant safety concern.