A technician at a hazardous waste facility died from neck and head injuries Wednesday suffered while he was working.

Killed was:Travis Taylor, 23, West Valley City.

Taylor was working at the Clive Incinerator Facility when he tried to clear blockage in a shredder and his head became lodged in the machinery just before midnight Tuesday.

Co-workers and emergency personnel were able to pull him free and performed resuscitation breathing, said Charlie Roberts, public relations director for Laidlaw.

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Because of heavy fog, a helicopter wasn't able to reach the facility, which is 65 miles west of Tooele.

He was stabilized at a Tooele hospital with cervical fractures. While being transported to the University Hospital, he suffered a massive stroke. Taylor died Wednesday at about 2:30 p.m.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Travis' family at this difficult time," said Ron Kosinski, facility manager. "He was a valued employee."

The Clive Incinerator Facility, owned by Laidlaw Environmental Services, disposes of oils, solvents and chemicals. Taylor had been employed as a services operator at the facility for about a year.

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