Killings at Navistar plant shock workforce
Story by Khaalid Walls
 February’s
shooting tragedy at Navistar’s engine plant in Melrose Park, Ill.,
shocked members of UAW Locals 6 and 2293.
Five people, including the assailant, died in the shooting rampage. Another
four were injured.
William D. Baker, a former worker who was fired in 1994 for stealing
diesel engines from the plant, opened fire with a handgun and assault
rifles before turning the gun on himself.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims of
this terrible incident,” said UAW President Stephen P. Yokich.
The UAW’s contract with Navistar includes an Employee Assistance
Program (EAP) that offers confidential assistance to any worker who needs
help.
UAW Vice President Nate Gooden, who directs the UAW’s Heavy Truck
and Engine Deptment said, “We are fully committed to making sure
every worker gets whatever assistance he or she needs.”
Two EAP representatives who work in the Melrose Park plant have been
assisting their co-workers on a daily basis.
The UAW has also dispatched additional crisis counselors and Health and
Safety Department staff members to assess the incident and offer further
support.
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